Approach to meetings

 Information was sent out in advance to inform the purpose of the consultations (Slides and information sheet). Each meeting had the aim of encouraging discussion and ideas from participants with minimum direction.

All views were recorded including divergent opinion however when common positions and points of agreement were identified they were asked for endorsement. Questions were answered and information given to inform the discussions and communities and individuals were offered the opportunity to later feed in further reflection or refining of ideas.

It is worth noting that these meetings were held through a period of prolonged service failures for many communities. This created a background of frustration and anger that had to be talked through before the focus turned to future structures and ways of working. Communities however did very much recognise and engage with the purpose of the consultation.

Although Neptune was the overarching purpose of our meetings it was recognised that all feedback on Ferry Services would be important and would be fed back. The conversations and information gathered came from a holistic conversation around ferry services. This covered wider issues such as future contracts, culture and connectivity to name three.

You cannot discuss future management structures without connecting them to the functions and improvements you seek.

In advance of looking at proposals for change it is important to inform these by acknowledging common issues with the present management structure. This should illustrate the importance put on a fully functioning ferry service and also the interdependence for all aspects of Island life.