A local truck driver who makes regular trips across the Gulf says there is a stark difference between passing over provincial boundaries and crossing on the ferry.

Shawn Hughes of Green Island Brook on the Northern Peninsula says there are stringent efforts at provincial boundaries in other provinces. For example, in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, he encountered checkpoints with personnel asking where you’re going and why, and advising you to self-isolate.

Once you get off the ferry at Port aux Basques, Hughes says there’s virtually nothing.

He told VOCM Open Line with Paddy Daly that a quick look around while he was in North Sydney showed traffic from all over waiting to board the ferry. Then, he says, they got off the ferry and headed wherever they’re going.

He’s also seen plenty of evidence of people on the island failing to practice social distancing.

Hughes counted several groups of four or five vehicles parked on the side of the road, which he assumes are people heading into the country for a gathering at their cabin.

Marine Atlantic Screening Passengers Before Boarding Vessels

 

Meanwhile, a spokesperson from Marine Atlantic says a number of measures have been set in place to protect passengers, staff and ensure the ferry service stays in operation.

Passengers arriving at either terminal in Port aux Basques or North Sydney are asked a series of questions before being deemed suitable for travel. Anyone showing potential signs of COVID-19 is not permitted on board the ferry.

By request of the provincial government, they are also distributing a questionnaire, outlining interprovincial travel guidelines and information on self-isolation.

While there are Nova Scotia government representatives stationed at the North Sydney terminal, Marine Atlantic says there are currently no provincial government representatives on-site in Port aux Basques.