RHA calls for transition period on Irish Sea ferry passport rule

Stena Line and Irish Ferries have confirmed that from 28 September passengers will need a valid passport to travel between Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland


Commenting, Alastair Gunn, RHA Policy Lead for Trade and Borders said:

"We understand why the ferry operators have made this change. They carry the liability if passenger data is wrong. Our primary concerns are costs and timing, and the impact on operators and passengers.

"Coach tours are sold months ahead, and a month's notice is not enough, especially for a group of forty or fifty with hotels and an itinerary already fixed. Many passengers do not hold a passport, and getting one takes time. Some will be turned away having booked in good faith. The coach company is left with empty seats to fill at short notice and costs it cannot recover.

"We are asking for a transitional period which would delay implementation of new changes, and cover all pre-existing bookings made before the changes were announced. Without this, those who booked in good faith will be turned away at the port, and the cost of onward travel and accommodation will fall on businesses or passengers.

A solution must be found."


ENDS