German shipbuilder remains Spirit of Tasmania ferry replacement contractor ... for now

The State Government is in contact with other ship builders as it waits on confirmation its current deal for two new Spirit of Tasmania vessels is still a goer.

A concept design for the new Spirit of Tasmania ferries:

THE State Government says its contract with a German shipbuilder to deliver two new Bass Strait ferries is still watertight.

But it is also talking to other shipbuilders around the world in case the situation changes.

German company Flensburger Schiffbau-Gesellschaft is in financial difficulties and there has been speculation those money troubles could see the expected delivery date of 2021 delayed.

FERRY BUILDER WOES NO DANGER TO FINANCES

GERMAN SHIPBUILDER FACING FINANCIAL WOES

$700 MILLION DEAL FOR TWO NEW BASS STRAIT FERRIES

A concept design for the replacement Spirit of Tasmania vessels.

Infrastructure Minister Jeremy Rockliff said a contract with FSG remained in place and detailed design work was continuing.

“However, TT-Line is also continuing to have discussions with other shipbuilders in case the situation changes,” Mr Rockliff said.

“The Government is awaiting further advice from TT-Line as to FGS’s capacity to deliver the ships in line with the contract.

“It is important to note that no money has changed hands and the Tasmanian Government will not pay one cent until there are assurances around FSG’s capacity to fulfil the contract and a refund guarantee is in place.”