Wakeham Commits to Reliable Ferry Service with Investment in Four New Vessels

 

Portugal Cove-St. Philip’s, NL – Tony Wakeham, Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party, announced today that a new PC government will invest in four new ferries to ensure Newfoundlanders and Labradorians have access to a reliable, modern ferry service.

 

“Recently, the Liberal Minister suggested it was time to put out some ‘feelers’ for improvements,” said Wakeham. “Everyone who depends on ferries knows we are well past that point. It’s time to act, and a PC government will get the job done.”

 

A Progressive Conservative government under Tony Wakeham will:
  • Immediately secure a new large ferry to serve both the Bell Island–Portugal Cove and Fogo Island–Change Island–Farewell routes. With capacity for approximately 200 passengers and 70 vehicles, this vessel will provide the province with a properly sized and dependable swing vessel to maintain service during maintenance or mechanical issues, ending the Liberal practice of shuffling ferries between routes and sparking community frustration.
  • Develop a long-term fleet renewal strategy to replace three aging provincial ferries with modern, dependable vessels. The plan will also include stronger preventative maintenance measures to reduce breakdowns and ensure consistent service.
  • Explore local shipbuilding options for the three replacement ferries, creating jobs in Newfoundland and Labrador while meeting long-term infrastructure needs.

 

Recent disruptions, particularly on the Bell Island–Portugal Cove and Fogo Island–Change Island–Farewell routes, have created serious challenges for residents and visitors.

 

This announcement was welcomed news to both Jim McKenna and Tina Neary, PC candidates in Fogo Island - Cape Freels and Conception Bay East - Bell Island. 

 

“The Liberals have spent years shuffling boats around, pitting communities against each other and leaving passengers stranded,” said McKenna. “With this announcement by our Leader, the people of Fogo Island and Change Islands will have a more reliable ferry service.”

“The ferry service is essential to residents of Bell Island, yet we have been ignored by the Liberals,” said Neary.  “This announcement will help local business, local tourism, and most importantly it will help residents get travel for work, medical appointments, and more.”

“The people of Newfoundland and Labrador deserve a ferry system that works—one that is reliable, modern, and built to serve all of us. We’ll plan properly, invest in new vessels, and restore confidence in our provincial ferry service,” concluded Wakeham.