NLIS 3
September 4, 2003
(Works, Services and Transportation)

 

MV Apollo to remain on Strait of Belle Isle crossing

Jim Walsh, Minister of Works, Services and Transportation, Wally Andersen, Minister of Labrador and Aboriginal Affairs and Yvonne Jones, MHA for Cartwright - L�Anse au Clair, announced today the contract for the MV Apollo, which operates the ferry service between St. Barbe and Blanc Sablon, has been extended for an additional four years.

The original contract was awarded to Labrador Marine Inc. in 2000. Pursuant to the terms and conditions of the contract, government has exercised its option to extend the Apollo for a further four years, commencing in 2004. The annual cost of the contract will remain at approximately $4.5 million.

Since the completion of the Trans-Labrador Highway from Red Bay to Cartwright, the demand for the Strait of Belle Isle ferry service has increased considerably. From 1999 to 2002, usage of the service has increased by approximately 59 per cent for passengers, 76 per cent for vehicles and 27 per cent for tractor trailers. Although the 2003 season is not complete, data obtained by officials from the Department of Works, Services and Transportation suggests there will be a further increase this year.

"The Apollo has been providing effective service to the Labrador Straits since 2000 and I am delighted this vessel will continue to provide this essential transportation link to businesses and people in the area," said Minister Walsh. "I would like to thank the various groups and organizations from the south coast of Labrador for their helpful feedback regarding this ferry service."

Yvonne Jones, MHA for Cartwright-L�Anse Au Clair, stated, "There is tremendous support for the vessel Apollo to continue servicing southern Labrador from the chambers of commerce and the two zonal boards. This vessel has provided quality service to the businesses and residents alike and I am pleased this will continue."

"Government remains committed to improving Labrador�s overall transportation system," said Minister Andersen. "Today�s announcement demonstrates this commitment, and I am confident this extension to the contract will build on the significant advancements already made in improving marine services in the Labrador Straits."

Media contact:

Lynn Evans, Works, Services and Transportation, (709) 729-3015
Bert Pomeroy, Labrador and Aboriginal Affairs, (709) 896-8668
Cynthia Layden-Barren, Fisheries and Aquaculture, (709) 729-3733

2003 09 04                                        3:50 p.m.


SearchHomeBack to GovernmentContact Us


All material copyright the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador. No unauthorized copying or redeployment permitted. The Government assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of any material deployed on an unauthorized server.
Disclaimer/Copyright/Privacy Statement