The Leader of Dover District Council has expressed concern at news that SeaFrance is to shed 127 jobs in East Kent following news yesterday that the ferry firm was liquidated by a French court and told to cease activity.

Cllr Paul Watkins, Leader of Dover District Council said: "We are very concerned at the impact of this decision and the effect this will have on local families. We would love to see another operator come in to help provide employment opportunities for residents of East Kent made redundant as a result of the current situation.

"However, we remain concerned at reports that Eurotunnel has not ruled out a possible future bid, and we would be concerned if this were to progress given the possible impact this could have on services and fair prices in the cross channel market.

 
"We understand that SeaFrance has given reassurances that it is working with staff in East Kent to minimize the impact and is working to ensure that debts are met, and we continue to work with all partners for the future and to see how best we can be supportive of local employees and families."

DFDS and LD Lines, who put in a bid to acquire some of SeaFrance's assets, and had it rejected by a French court, have announced their intention to run a service between Dover and Calais.

It is understood the workforce operating the new service would be from France.

Hawkinge Gazette and Channel Coast News 2012©