P&O Ferries is strengthening its freight operations on the Calais-Dover crossing as part of its commitment to maintain the flow of goods during the Covid-19 crisis. The United Kingdom relies on P&O Ferries for much of its fresh food, as well as imports of medicines and other vital supplies.
The shift to meet the challenge of the Covid-19 crisis is made possible thanks to the commitment and hard work of P&O Ferries’ workforce in the Port of Calais, who are taking on new roles in freight handling to keep food, medicines and other goods flowing.
‘In the average week we transport 25,000 loads of freight between France and Britain,’ says Janette Bell, Chief Executive Officer of P&O Ferries. ‘The Calais-Dover crossing is also critical to the economy of France, as well as the UK, Ireland and the wider European Union. I want to thank every single member of the P&O Ferries team, especially our colleagues in Calais, who are keeping the flow of goods moving through this crisis. The well-being of millions of people depends on them. I urge all governments to back the commitment of our colleagues by designating port workers as key workers, to secure further the flow of goods.’
Check-in and loading without direct contact
P&O Ferries is following the guidance of health authorities on both sides of the channel to protect the health and well-being of employees and customers. The check-in and loading process has been modified to avoid direct contact. Cleaning protocols have been intensified on ships, which have also switched from air-conditioning to fresh air.
