January 27, 1999
(Works, Services and Transportation)

Freeze on intra-provincial ferry rates

Rick Woodford, Minister of Works, Services and Transportation, announced today an immediate freeze on intra-provincial ferry rates. Rates are already frozen on the Labrador Coastal Service and the St. Barbe-Blanc Sablon ferry service.

The ferry rate structure which would see incremental fare increases each year from 1995-1999 was instituted in 1995.

Mr. Woodford said: "I have received representation from most areas serviced by the ferry system seeking a review of the current ferry rate policy and I have also recently received a request from the Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Municipalities also lending their support to a policy review. I believe the issues and concerns raised by the communities serviced by the ferries should be addressed."

"No further scheduled rate increases will occur until a complete review of the Ferry Rate Policy and Structure has been completed", said Mr. Woodford.

Mr. Woodford said: "This decision was taken given the concerns expressed by the travelling public. Consultations will be held with the users committees in each of the communities now serviced by the ferry system to ensure a full appreciation of the impact of ferry rates is addressed."

Media contact: Gary Callahan, (709) 729-3015.

1999 01 27 3:55 p.m.