Cross-channel ferry delays cleared
Ferry Online Travel News 03/03/2008
Bad weather and strikes backed up traffick on the Channel Ferry
Operation Stack, a backlog of lorries on the M20 in Kent, has now been cleared. The backlog built up as a result of a strike by SeaFrance ferry officers in addition to poor weather conditions on the Channel.
Kent police closed down the motorway in order to let lorries park, a procedure known as Operation Stack. Traffic was diverted onto the A20.
While the police closed roads, SeaFrance was busy booking passengers with other ferry lines.
A SeaFrance statement said: "SeaFrance Dover-Calais Ferries is experiencing disruptions to service due to industrial action by on board officers. SeaFrance is currently booking all passengers onto alternative crossings with other operators to ensure passengers reach their destination with minimal disruption.”
Although the weather conditions have improved, the high winds also caused delays for P&O Ferries, who operate between Dover and Calais.
Although the police had advised that motorized avoid the entire area over the weekend, the situation has since cleared up.
SeaFrance, however, has been less lucky, with negotiations between the company and its workers ongoing.
"SeaFrance is working to end the action as soon as possible and contact between the parties is ongoing," said a spokeswoman.
"However the union demands amount to the equivalent of an 25% increase in salary costs over three years, which the company considers excessive and is not in a position to consider."
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