Province Initiates Ferry Studies Review, Collaborates with Local Business Leaders

The province has asked an expert panel to review existing studies on ferry service between Yarmouth and the United States and meet with key groups to evaluate the conditions required for a viable service.

The panel of tourism, ferry and business experts will provide arms-length, independent advice to help the province formulate a definitive recommendation on a ferry service.

"The communities in southwest Nova Scotia want to see a ferry service return, as does the government," said Premier Darrell Dexter. "I look forward to hearing the panel's advice on what needs to be an economically viable solution for the long term."

The panel includes Peter Nicholson, former president and CEO for the Council of Canadian Academies as chair; Michele McKenzie, president and CEO of the Canadian Tourism Commission; and Elizabeth Beale, president and CEO of the Atlantic Provinces Economics Council. Mary Brooks, chair of commerce, Dalhousie School of Business Administration, will lead a team from Dalhousie University that will manage the review process.

"Working together with the province is an exciting step forward as we explore a business case to support our efforts," said Keith Condon, chair of the Nova Scotia International Ferry Partnership Board. "This expert panel will move us closer to a potential solution for a viable ferry service."

"The province continues to make strategic investments in southwest Nova Scotia, supporting a variety of valuable industries and jobs," said Premier Dexter. "Through jobsHere, we will continue to find long-term solutions for a stable economy in southwest Nova Scotia."

To read more about the panel members visit www.gov.ns.ca/econ .