Season begins for Southern Labrador marine service

Works, Services and Transportation Minister Jim Walsh and Cartwright - L�Anse Au Clair MHA Yvonne Jones announced today that marine service to the south coast of Labrador commences today.

A contract in the amount of $296,800 was awarded to Puddister Trading Company Ltd. of St. John�s. Beginning today, the communities of Charlottetown, Norman Bay, Pinsent�s Arm, Williams Harbour and Port Hope Simpson will be serviced by the MV Challenge I. The Challenge I is 20-passenger vessel capable of handling freight for the communities being serviced.

"I am extremely pleased to announce the beginning of the marine season for the area, as the south coast will have a vessel dedicated to its communities," said Minister Walsh. "This will be an improved service for residents, as they will see a vessel in their towns on a more frequent basis than they have in the past."

"The residents of Labrador South will be very pleased with the service they receive with this dedicated ferry," said Minister Jones. "This ferry service complements the routing of the Trans Labrador Highway and, together, these two components give the people living along the south coast an integrated transportation system."

Details on schedules can be obtained at www.gov.nl.ca/FerryServices/schedules.stm

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

2003 06 09                                        5:05 p.m.