Bell Island is getting its wish, much to the dismay of the people of Fogo.

Service on the tickle has been spotty with the Flanders and Beaumont Hamel in and out of drydock – occasionally both out for repairs at the same time.

The larger Legionnaire won’t be back until month’s end at the earliest.

Transportation and infrastructure Minister Elvis Loveless says they are taking the Astron from Fogo to use on the Bell Island-Portugal Cove run. That leaves Fogo with one vessel, the Veteran, the sister vessel to the Legionnaire.

People are currently blocking the Astron from going anywhere.

He says they’re trying to balance the need, and traffic to Bell Island is up. Minister Loveless says he’s aware that residents of Fogo are protesting the move.

Listen to the full interview with Your VOCM Mornings from Minister Loveless.

Fogo Mayor Andrew Shea says the minister did not even contact him so they don’t know if the Astron will be gone for a day, a month, or for good.

If that boat leaves, we’ll be in the same situation Bell Island is in. We’re leaving traffic at the wharf even with two boats,” says the mayor.

Meanwhile, the Veteran is scheduled to go in for repairs this afternoon. It’s unclear how long it will be out of service.