Another delay has hit the stranded Swansea-Cork ferry. Sailings scheduled for Friday, Saturday and Sunday have been cancelled, and the ship, MV Julia, remains berthed in Swansea. Service operator Fastnet Line was hopeful of getting the all-clear from safety inspectors yesterday, with the inaugural crossing potentially tonight. But the scheduled inspection did not even take place, it emerged.
The UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) said yesterday evening that it was still waiting to hear from operator Fastnet Line and the MCA’s Irish counterparts. Without their involvement, the MCA couldn’t do anything.
An agency spokesman said: “No inspection took place. We are sitting quietly and waiting for them. We don’t expect anyone to turn up until Tuesday at least.” This latest twist follows a previous, unsuccessful inspection last week, which prevented the planned launch on St David’s Day. Fastnet Line again put a brave face on what is another blow.
“Fastnet Line regrets to advise that due to delays in completing all surveys aboard the MV Julia, the following three sailings have now been cancelled: Friday, March 5, Saturday March 6, and Sunday, March 7,” said a spokeswoman.
“The first commercial sailing of the MV Julia on the Swansea-to-Cork route will be early in the week commencing March 8.” She said: “Fastnet Line would like to thank our customers for their understanding at this time.” Passengers affected will be offered alternative travel dates or a full refund.
The company spokeswoman added: “We wish to clarify that the delay is not connected to the works carried out at Harris Pye dockyard, and wish to record our appreciation of the support we have received there and in Wales to date.” Swansea-based South Wales West AM Peter Black has long been a supporter of the ferry link, which ceased operating in 2006.
 ”It is important because it’s a valuable link between Swansea and Ireland, and will bring quite a lot of trade into the city,” he said. “It’s an absolutely crucial economic link, and I’m looking forward to it coming back. I am a bit disappointed it has not yet started, but I am hopeful it is a minor delay.
Swansea Council leader Chris Holley said: “It is unfortunate, but you have to remember public safety is paramount in the mind of the company.”
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