Leopardess survey 'must be impartial'
MARINE traders and experts have applauded States members for using their 'common sense' in delaying debate on the replacement for the Leopardess, but they have warned that a survey of the fisheries protection vessel has to be totally independent.
The successful sursis, led by Deputy Heidi Soulsby, followed a raft of criticism and concern with traders and experts questioning the need for a new vessel, the tender process and the reasoning for choosing Dutch firm Damen Shipyards to do the work.
One of those critical of the report was local boat builder Aqua-Star, which attacked the tender process.
It had met C&E about a replacement but after enquiring whether a fibreglass hull would be considered, the company said it had never received a response.
'We were very pleased that common sense did prevail in the end,' said Aqua-Star managing director Geoff Willson.
'We can save over £2.5m. with this result and keep a little-used boat running economically for another 10 years-plus.'
Mr Willson disputed comments made by C&E that there was a lack of engagement with the company.
To date, he added, Aqua-Star had still not received a response to its letter.
