The provincial government is reviewing how best to deliver ferry services to the province, but is stressing that no decisions have yet been made.
The province yesterday announced that they are launching a “marine market sounding” process, which will look at ways to deliver the services more effectively and efficiently.
Last year, $79-million was set aside in the provincial budget to cover the cost of marine transportation.
However, Transportation Minister Elvis Loveless says in the last number of years ferries made about 4,000 crossings with no passengers on board.
Loveless addresses the concerns of some residents who are worried that the process will result in a reduction in services for them.
Loveless says he’s not ready to “push the panic button,” and residents shouldn’t be either. That’s why they’re going through the marine market sounding process—so they can involve people directly affected and get their feedback.