The Fogo Island Ferry Users Committee is demanding action from the provincial government regarding the state of the ferry service in the region.

They say the Kumitk W isn’t adequate for its run, citing concerns over the amount of time it’s held on-shore.

Jarrod Ogland says the ferry is out of service for an average of 20 days each year because it cannot handle severe weather as other ferries can.

He says he tried to contact Transport Minister Fred Hutton, but the minister did not answer the phone when they arranged a call.

In the letter it wrote:

“Over the past few weeks, I have made multiple attempts to reach you to discuss our concerns. Unfortunately, my efforts to connect have not been successful. When we finally arranged a conversation this past Monday, I was disappointed to find that you did not answer my call. My subsequent attempts to reach you have also gone unanswered, which I find concerning.”

He says it’s led to uncertainty for those who try to book medical and car appointments off Fogo Island.

He says to make matters worse, the dock doesn’t support the Kumitk W, leaving longer on-load and off-load times.

“We believe that the use of the Kamutik ferry on Fogo Island is inadequate due to the significant height difference between the ferry’s deck and our dock, which restricts the use of only one ramp. This has led to delays, as tractor-trailers are often required to reverse off the vessel. This situation not only causes logistical challenges but also poses a risk of damage to vehicles,” said the letter.