Scrutiny Panel to carry out review on Jersey’s ferry service terms of contract
Scrutiny
21 November 2025
The Economic and International Affairs Scrutiny Panel will examine the terms of Jersey’s ferry contract to assess whether it will achieve the operational, service and economic outcomes expected by Islanders.The Government of Jersey awarded ferry firm DFDS the contract to provide services between the Island, the UK and France in December 2024. The firm took over the routes in March 2025 and is due to provide the service for the next 20 years.
Since then, the Panel has received a significant number of submissions from Islanders and local businesses highlighting concerns about the company’s pricing structure, the cost of freight and the general level of service. This resulted in a call from the Panel for the Minister for Sustainable Economic Development to publish the agreement to allow for appropriate scrutiny.
The Panel has now launched a review to evaluate the terms of that agreement and explore in more detail some of the initial issues that have been raised following its implementation. In particular, the flat-rate charging system as well as the levels of service, future investment in vessels, transport of pets and accessibility.
Deputy Montfort Tadier, the Chair of the Panel, said: ‘The Ferry Service is a vital lifeline for all of us whether for leisure or for getting goods into and off the Island. It is important given the 20-year contract with DFDS, that we are assured the Island has the best deal, especially with regards to the implications of the flat-rate card. The Panel has heard mixed feedback on this and wants to speak to all stakeholders in order to understand the pricing for end users, not just from DFDS but also from third-party freight operators. From the submissions the Panel has received, and from our recent hearing with retailers, it seems there are several concerns about how the current situation is impacting businesses, islanders and visitors alike. There has been a lot of focus on the tender process, but now it is essential that we ensure the concession agreement we have for the next 20 years, is fit for purpose.’
The Panel will be holding Public Hearings and all stakeholders are asked to share their views on the economic impact they have seen since the service was introduced. Submissions can be made by emailing [email protected]
The Panel will present its findings and recommendations to the States Assembly before the end of the current political term.
See the Review page.
