News Release Archive
TRANSPORTATION/COMMUNICATIONS--FERRY SERVICES REVIEW ----------------------------------------------------------------- A review of the ferry services operated by the Department of Transportation and Communications will include public consultation before any schedule changes are made. "No decisions on such changes will be made before the users of these ferry services have had an opportunity to provide input to the department," Transportation and Communications Minister Richie Mann said today. "We are willing to work with these communities to determine what alternatives are available to reduce an annual operating deficit of over $4 million for these ferry services," Mr. Mann said. "We are open to any and all ideas these communities may have, but the department can only protect the ferry services if we are able to significantly reduce or eliminate this loss. Our goal is to have a transportation system that is sustainable and affordable." The review of the ferry services was undertaken as part of a comprehensive program review by employees from all functional areas and all levels of the department. All seven ferry operations were reviewed and consideration is being given to increasing the existing average fare of 50 cents for most services. "As with private industry and every sector of our society, this department is anticipating additional requirements to reduce our expenditures," the minister said. "We felt a responsible preparation for such reductions would be to review all of the Department's programs, including the ferry services." The public consultation process for the ferry services will begin with a community meeting at 7 p.m. Thursday, March 20, at the Community College campus in Bridgewater. Community meetings will be scheduled and announced for other areas that could be affected by schedule changes. -30- Contact: Public Affairs and Communications 1-902-424-8687 trp Mar. 19, 1996 - 4:50 p.m.