P&O Ferries “not a viable business” in its current state

According to reports from ITV, it will turn to an agency to keep their ferries running and current staff will be able to apply to the agency for work. Responding to these reports, trade union RMT has instructed its members to remain onboard. 

Fellow maritime union Nautilus International has also told its members to stay onboard their vessels, describing the move as a “betrayal of British workers”. In a statement, its general secretary Mark Dickinson added: “It is nothing short of scandalous given that this Dubai-owned company received British taxpayer’s money during the pandemic.

“There was no consultation and no notice given by P&O. Be assured the full resources of Nautilus International stand ready to act in defence of our members.” 

In parliament earlier today (17 March), transport secretary Grant Shapps said his officials would urgently seek conversations with the firm, particularly over concerns about its workforce.  

In a statement, P&O confirmed the workers would be made redundant immediately. A spokesperson for the company explained “in its current state, P&O Ferries is not a viable business. 

“We have made a £100m loss year-on-year, which has been covered by our parent DP World. This is not sustainable. 

“Our survival is dependent on making swift and significant changes now. Without these changes there is no future for P&O Ferries.

“These circumstances have resulted in a very difficult but necessary decision, which was only taken after seriously considering all the available options.”

Earlier today, a P&O representative told The Independent that it was not facing liquidation.