Money well spent?

I am intrigued by the article about Serco’s alleged improvements for passengers on their ferries, and threatened job losses (Ferry union fury over “scab” comments; SN 23/11/12).

The pictures indicate that “premium” reclining seats are being installed about as far for’ard as can be in the for’ard bar.

Presumably if they are premium they will have to be paid for. Money well spent if it comes a coarse night, I’m sure.

Apart from the promised personal lights etc. will there be personal basins, not to mention plastic capes – think projectile vomiting?

I understand that showers are being installed for non-cabin passengers. Great, but will they have to pay for them?

And all this refurbishment, for’ard, midships, and aft: how much sleeping space will be left in the way of upholstered benches, where people, who can’t afford a cabin, would actually like to stretch out? My guess is very few or none.

Good news for all suffering from bad backs and/or arterial problems.

I fear that what stewards will be left will largely be ‘security’ staff that are forced to eject non-payers from floor or any other space.

I’m sure some wonderful experiences on the high seas are going to be had.

As a relatively frequent traveller on the ferries, I wish RMT all success in defending its members’ jobs.

James Mackenzie
Tresta