Company issues new update on dispute with Nautilus
The Isle of Man Steam Packet says it will withdraw a letter of notice sent to officers three days before Christmas.
That's if Nautilus agrees to stop industrial action.
A statement issued today (5 January) says: "The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company is providing an update on the current status of negotiations regarding live aboard practices on its conventional vessels."
"The company’s representatives met with Manx Industrial Relations Service and Nautilus International on 28 December for an initial mediation meeting.
"Following discussions with officers on board the company has agreed to continue to work with all parties on a proposal to resolve what it sees as the outstanding issues.
"As a result of the above the company has indicated it will withdraw the notice letters sent in December in exchange for Nautilus agreeing to repudiate industrial action with immediate effect.
"The company is confident, following recent discussions, that the issue can be resolved at this stage to the benefit of all parties.
"Follow up meetings are scheduled for 15 and 16 January. If, after the meeting, there is no agreement the company will go to arbitration through Manx Industrial Relations Service."
Treasury Minister Alex Allinson confirmed to Manx Radio today the MIRS had been brought in to help with ongoing negotiations.
Since Tuesday the Manxman has been operating on a 'contingency schedule' - providing daytime passenger sailings only - whilst the MV Arrow has been in charge of overnight freight services.
Manxman is currently undermanned due to a rostered officer having to unexpectedly take leave for personal reasons, ongoing industrial action means no fellow officers will swap shifts or cover the absence via paid overtime.
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