The MHA for Fogo Island says they have, once again, been left out of the mix with the largest ferry in service in the province leaving their run for the Bell Island route.
But the minister responsible for the intraprovincial ferry system says it’s a numbers game.
Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Fred Hutton says they monitored traffic to and from the islands over a two-week period, and made their move based on the results.
The Veteran was taken from Fogo for refit a couple of weeks ago and the Legionnaire brought in from Bell Island, but the Legionnaire is en route back to the tickle.
Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Fred Hutton (VOCM News)
He says from Nov. 8-21, three vehicles were left behind at Fogo but 599 on the Bell Island crossing.
“It’s more of a commuter service for Bell Island as we have about 300 people who commute to Portugal Cove every day.”
Hutton says the Beaumont Hamel, Astron, and, on a stand-by basis, the Sound of Islay will be in Notre Dame Bay to accommodate the needs in that region.
Fogo MHA Jim McKenna can’t understand why the province does not add a newer swing vessel through lease or purchase, and while government has looked at that possibility, Hutton says there is no quick answer.
