NOTE TO EDITORS:  MV Beaumont Hamel currently operating on increased schedule  for Fogo Island � Change Islands ferry service

The Department of Transportation and Works advises that the MV Beaumont Hamel took over service from the MV Earl Winsor on the Fogo Island � Change Islands ferry operation this morning, October 28.

The MV Earl Winsor has departed for St. John�s, where it will undergo a scheduled refit as directed by Transport Canada.

Residents in the area have requested additional runs for the MV Beaumont Hamel to effectively accommodate the marine traffic normally served by the larger MV Earl Winsor. As a result, the department has generated an increased schedule and complete details are available here.

The MV Nonia has departed Lewisporte, and is currently on route to Portugal Cove.

Media contact: Lori Lee Oates, ABC, Communications, (709) 729-3015, 690-8403

2005 10 28                         4:00 p.m.