Gozo Channel’s decision to choose Islands Ferry Network Ltd as its partner was made on the recommendation of an evaluation committee chaired by Joseph Cuschieri, the Times of Malta has learned.
The outgoing chairman of the Malta Gaming Authority, Mr Cuschieri was last week named by the government as chief executive officer of the Malta Financial Services Authority.
In anticipation of a call for tenders by the transport authorities for a subsidised ferry service between the two islands, the Gozo Ministry last week announced that Gozo Channel had selected Islands Ferry Network Ltd as its fast-ferry service partner for the upcoming public service tender.
The Gozo Ministry had been asked for more details but it replied it would only be in a position to give information once the tender process was over.
In a statement on Thursday, it criticised the Times of Malta for asking questions that “might prejudice the tender process”.
Virtu Ferries, which had unsuccessfully applied to partner Gozo Channel, resorted to legal action, challenging the decision announced by the Gozo Ministry.
The company, which offers a fast-ferry catamaran service to Sicily, claimed the tender issued by the Transport Ministry was written to satisfy the needs of Gozo Channel while excluding new operators, which, it insisted, violated EU rules.
Gozo Channel has since been asked by the public review contracts board to suspend all decisions made recently to choose its partner for a fast-ferry service until objections were addressed.
Read: Fast ferry tender process 'completely suspended' after Virtu Ferries objects
Read: Commission should monitor fast ferry tender for procurement compliance - sources
In its legal challenge, Virtu Ferries argued that Islands Ferry should have been disqualified because “it does not possess the technical capabilities to meet the requirements set by Gozo Channel, it does not have the necessary experience required by the State company and does not possess the necessary economic standing as required in a preliminary market consultation process carried by Gozo Channel”.
Islands Ferry Network Ltd, which was registered earlier this month, is a joint venture between Magro Brothers and the owners of the Fortina Hotel, Fortel Investments.
Gozo Channel is a public company and its board is selected by the Gozo Minister.
Questions sent to Gozo Ministry:
1. According to the Gozo Ministry, there were seven offers received by Gozo Channel. Who were the offers from and what was their bid?
2. Can you state the names of the members of the evaluation committee?
3. How was a bid from Island Ferry Network Ltd chosen when this company was registered after the said call for expressions of interest closed?
4. What experience does the selected company have in fast ferry services?
5. What is your reaction to the statement made by Virtu Ferries?
Reply:
An official press release was issued on 14/04/2018.
All questions will be answered once the PSO tendering process is totally concluded.