(May 14, 2021) – Barry Petten, PC Opposition Critic for Transportation and Infrastructure and MHA for Conception Bay South, says government was slow to react to damages to the Legionnaire on the Fogo Island-Change Islands run, leaving residents without critical supplies.

“Residents have been without a ferry for days after an electrical failure caused the Legionnaire to crash into the wharf on May 11 and do significant damage. While repairs are ongoing, there is no date for the vessel to return to service,” said Petten.

“Commuters have been trapped, residents are missing critical medical appointments, supplies are running low, and landed fish products are at risk of spoiling. This is a critical situation and residents are demanding to know where Ministers Bragg and Loveless are.”

Petten says government was slow to institute air travel alternatives, with concerns for the frequency of those trips now that they are in place.

“Does Government have another swing vessel available that could be deployed to the area? Does Labrador Marine have any vessels available that could assist? Does the Canadian Coast Guard have any capacity to transport goods and people?” said Petten.

“Yet again, this government has done a poor job communicating with the residents and has been slow to respond with limited fixed-wing air service. This is just not good enough.”
 

David Maher

Director of Strategic Communications

(cell) 709-725-0984

DavidMaher@gov.nl.ca

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