Government travel expenses came under fire on Friday after it was revealed a Transport Ministry team would be embarking on a tour of the US to evaluate proposals submitted for Bermuda's high speed ferries.

The team is set to leave today and plans to have a decision made about which company will build the ferries by the end of next month.

But the size of the delegation has been criticised as a waste of taxpayer's money.

Shadow Minister of Transport Erwin Adderley said: "This seems to be an inordinate waste of money to send seven people to four locations in the US to evaluate ferries.

"If there are technical decisions to make, two people and the Minister would be in a better position to make a decision.

"In terms of going to Florida for a test ride, I heard a group went to Boston and New York, so I don't know what additional information they need.

"This is typical of this Government to spend, spend, spend.'' But Transport Minister Dr. Ewart Brown hit back and said: "I would expect him to say that since he has no legitimate argument.

"This number is to ensure that we get adequate feedback.'' Dr. Brown said he received a total of 11 proposals and these were narrowed down to a list of three -- Gladding-Hearn in Boston, Austal in Mobile, Alabama, and Derecktor in New York.

"These three firms were selected based on their experience in building ferryboats similar to what we envision for Bermuda, the cost and the strength of their proposals.

"Before we decide on the successful design team and builder, it is important that our technical officers see first hand the quality of the shipbuilders' facilities and understand all the details of their proposals.

"In order to accomplish this, next week I will be taking a team from the Transport Ministry to visit these shipyards. Each member of the team represents one area that we are interested in exploring.

"We will be able to talk to the designers, see ferries being built and also have an opportunity to ride a ferry built by one of the companies in operation in Key West, Florida.'' Dr. Brown said all proposals would be given great consideration before a commitment was made.

"New ferries will represent a significant investment for this community and it is vital that we evaluate the merits of each proposal on our short list before making a final decision.'' The team will include Marine and Ports Director Ron Ross, Ports Authority chairman Philip Richardson, Bermuda Industrial Union Marine Division president Randolph Smith, ferry service supervisor Mike Dolding, senior pilot Terry Spencer and consultant Larry Jacobs.

Mr. Adderley Dr. Brown