NLIS 1
May 17, 2001
(Works, Services and Transportation)

Early start for Little Bay Islands ferry 

The Little Bay Islands ferry will start its summer schedule a month early this year, announced Works, Services and Transportation Minister Percy Barrett. Instead of the usual June 15 start, the summer schedule for the Inch Arran will commence May 18, 2001. (See schedule below)

The department is implementing the extra crossings to support the movement of commuters to and from the fish plant on Little Bay Islands, helping ensure the plant's continued operation. The summer schedule will remain in effect until its regular termination date (September 15) or as long as is required to accommodate traffic while the fish plant is operating. The additional ferry runs will also help facilitate the movement of product to and from the plant.

"We understand there will be approximately 75 people traveling to Little Bay Islands in the summer months for employment purposes. These people have no choice but to commute, as there are insufficient accommodations on Little Bay Islands to house the incoming people. We have decided, therefore, to implement the summer schedule a month early to accommodate these people," said Minister Barrett. "As a government we believe in the viability of businesses in rural Newfoundland and the department is making this extra effort to support the local industry and employment in the area."

The Little Bay Islands - Shoal Arm summer schedule (May 18 - September 15) is as follows:

                  DEPARTS

Little Bay Islands	Shoal Arm
7:30 a.m.	9:00 a.m.
10:00 a.m.	11:15 a.m. **
1:30 p.m. **	2:45 p.m. **
4:00 p.m. **	5:15 p.m.
7:30 p.m.	9:00 p.m.

** Except Wednesday

Media contact: Lynn Evans, Communications, (709) 729-3015.

2001 05 17                                             11:00 a.m.