The Treasury Minister has defended Steam Packet pricing policy after an MHK said it was “exploiting those in most need.”
Jason Moorhouse asked Dr Alex Allinson what the additional cost is of booking a crossing at a port compared with using the Steam Packet Company website.
Dr. Alex Allinson stated: “Booking directly with the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company, via their website, is always the cheapest way of securing a booking.
“There is an advertised charge of £7.50 per passenger and £15 per vehicle, which includes all passengers applied to telephone and in-person bookings.”
Digitally Excluded
Mr Moorhouse challenged the policy, asking: “Has the impact of the high charges been considered on the digitally excluded? Is it right that the poorest and oldest people are now forced to pay more to access the same service?
“These people should be helped, not forced into boosting the company profits.”
Dr Allinson however highlighted alternatives people could use including a travel agent, the hub in the sea terminal and the Get Online Centre.
He added: “The web discount at the ticket desk will be applied if requested by a passenger unable to book due to a disability.”
Mr Moorhouse cited a case where a passenger was quoted £35 for a booking later found free online, calling it “exploiting those in most need”.
Dr Allinson urged details be shared for investigation but reiterated that passengers unable to travel due to disruptions are rebooked free of charge.
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