Following a special meeting of the Executive Council last week, an extension of the shipping schedule is being urgently drawn up to cover the period from October 2005 to March 2006.  The preferred option would have 2 UK calls – one before Christmas and one in early 2006. 

 

The Governor saw this move as buying some time to obtain a fuller analysis of the South Atlantic trial and at this stage there was no commitment to further UK calls beyond March 2006.

 

In drawing up a possible schedule the agents have been asked to consider a request from Tristan da Cunha for the RMS to undertake a cruise there in 2006 - its Quincentenary year.  January 2006 might present one of the best times for passengers getting ashore.  Governor Clancy has made it clear that whilst welcoming the Tristan cruise idea in principle, there would have to be assurance that any cruise would cover the costs involved and not add to pressures to the shipping subsidy.

 

St Helena Government

 

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