News Release Archive
NEWS RELEASE (CNS772) -->> PREMIER--WINTER FERRY SERVICE ESSENTIAL PREMIER--WINTER FERRY SERVICE ESSENTIAL ----------------------------------------------------------------- The Nova Scotia government is "exasperated" that plans for privatizing ferry service between Yarmouth and Bar Harbour, Maine don't include a guarantee of winter service, Premier John Savage said today. The premier said the province has repeatedly called upon the federal government to maintain winter service. The federal government announced today (Thursday, Nov. 7) that Northumberland Ferries, of Charlottetown, was the successful bidder for Marine Atlantic's Yarmouth-Bar Harbour and Digby-Saint John ferry routes. Premier Savage said, "By not insisting that Northumberland commit to providing year-round service between Yarmouth and Bar Harbour, Ottawa has dealt another cruel blow to the economy of southwestern Nova Scotia." Premier Savage said annual winter service to Maine and New England is essential, at the very least until the end of January. The ferry service is a vital transportation link for Christmas tree growers, lobster fishermen and forest product exporters. The premier said he was disappointed with the deal given the fact Ottawa indicated it would stress the importance of year-round service when it initiated the privatization process. "The federal government acknowledged the importance of this export link when it agreed to extend ferry service the past two winters. The situation hasn't changed. The service will be just as vital to the community in 1997 and beyond as it is this year." Nova Scotia paid out more than $300,000 to extend this year's ferry season so that service would not be interrupted while Ottawa examined bids from private operators. The provincial government wanted Ottawa to use the extra time to push for year-round service in its negotiations with the private sector. "It appears that Ottawa does not appreciate the tremendous impact a reduced ferry schedule will have on the region." Premier Savage said a study done for southwestern Nova Scotia development authorities pegged the cost of losing winter service at more than $2 million. "The area is already suffering from cuts to various federal programs such as support for small harbours. Money is also being taken out of the economy as the result of dramatically increased fees, including fishing licenses. Cutting vital export links will only add to the area's problems." The premier said he has communicated Nova Scotia's disappointment to federal Transport Minister David Anderson. Premier Savage said there is still time for Ottawa to negotiate with the private ferry operator for an extended winter season. -30- Contact: David Harrigan 902-424-6600 jlw Nov.07, 1996 5:20 p.m.