Ferry service

I do not agree with M.G. Vella's version of events as listed in his letter (May 16).

The master, through the public address system on the vessel, advised clients that the departure of the vessel had to be delayed pending clearance from the port authorities. As I am sure you are aware, the master is obliged to abide by such regulations.

Thus, even though the vessel was ready to sail, it could not do so.

I am sure you agree that it was not in the company's interest to leave the vessel berthed and delay the departure for such a long time.

On the other hand, I fail to see why there was such dissent by all concerned when the master announced he intended to embark the passengers and vehicles at Cirkewwa, on its return trip to Gozo.

It was solely done to give a better service and to reduce our customers' waiting time.

It would not have affected the people on board, except for the fact that the trip would have taken an extra 20 minutes or so.

Notwithstanding this, I apologise for any inconvenience the above may have caused.