Stena ‘may not renew contract’

STENA LINE confirmed yesterday that continuance of its Dun Laoghaire to Holyhead route is in doubt when the current contract with Dun Laoghaire Harbour Company expires in 2011.

Stena Line said the company had taken steps over the last few years to control escalating fuel costs by reducing trippage, but the route remained in a loss making situation.

A statement from the company said the level of the harbour dues being charged by Dun Laoghaire Port were a major cause of concern and a very real threat to the long term viability of the route.