Up to 50 jobs are at risk at Isle of Wight ferry operator Wightlink, as the company launches a 30-day consultation with the RMT Union.
The consultation is part of Wightlink’s Rostering and Operational Efficiency Project, which sits within the company’s five-year strategy.
Modernisation plans
A spokesperson for Wightlink told OnTheWight,
“This project is needed to modernise and improve efficiency, so we have the right people in the right places at the right times.
“Like many businesses, rising costs and inflationary pressures are having an impact with our cost growth being twice that of our revenue growth over the past year. To ensure we are able to continue investing in our people, our fleet and our ports, we are currently going through a 30-day consultation with our operational staff alongside our union the RMT.
“The proposal may affect up to 50 roles, but there are over 30 new vacancies in the proposed structure. We hope to deliver the proposal through a voluntary process, and the suggested changes include no reduction in sailings on any route.”
Part of a five-year strategy
The company says staff have been kept informed throughout the process, with information and support provided to those who may be affected.
Wightlink adds that it is holding meaningful consultation with the RMT to receive staff feedback on the proposals.
Importantly, it says, the consultation means that no final decisions have been made.
Robertson: Private equity should not be operating lifeline transport service
Isle of Wight East Conservative MP Joe Robertson told OnTheWight,
“I support the principle of ensuring efficiencies in the delivery of ferry services but it is not clear that Wightlink can make redundancies without impacting their increasingly reduced services.
“If savings are made, we can be confident they won’t be passed on to passengers.
“In any case, the main driver of high prices is the private equity ownership model whereby large profits are paid out to foreign shareholders. Private equity should not be operating lifeline transport services in an unregulated market.
“It doesn’t happen anywhere else in the UK and the Island should be no different. Wightlink must do the right thing by all their staff and their families.”
Quigley: Wightlink staff are excellent
Isle of Wight West Labour MP, Richard Quigley, said,
“It’s early stages and I am glad that Wightlink have consulted the RMT at the earliest stage, it is extremely disappointing that any redundancies are planned.
“Despite my criticisms of fares, reliability and frequency of services, Wightlink staff are excellent, and I extend my sympathy to them during this uncertain time.”
Union response awaited
OnTheWight has approached the RMT Union for a comment and will update once we hear back.
Article edit
2.35pm 17th Sep 2025 – RQ comment added
