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Ferry operators elect new executive

Marine Atlantic's vice president of human resources is the new president of the Canadian Ferry Operators Association. A.G.(Bud) Harbidge was elected for a two-year term at the organization's annual meeting in St. John's last week.

The two new CFOA vice-presidents are Murray Ryder of Coastal Transport Limited in Saint John, NB and Harry Martin of BC Ferries. Susan Schrempf of Owen Sound Transportation Company in Ontario is secretary-treasurer. Tony DeHoog of Marine Atlantic will serve with Mr. Martin on the technical committee.

The association seeks to represent the interests of Canadian ferry operators on a wide range of matters, including safety and technical standards. It also provides a forum for discussion and mutual exchange of information and experience.

"I feel honoured to have been chosen for this office," said Mr. Harbidge, "and look forward to a very interesting two years. This is a time when a great many changes are happening in the ferry business, including technology advancements, regulatory issues, safety management certification and changing mandates."

Contact: Ted Bartlett, Communications, (506) 851-3611 or (709) 772-5731