PRINCE RUPERT – New Democrat MLA, Jennifer Rice is welcoming increased ferry service on three North Coast routes, reversing service cuts made by the previous BC Liberal government. The three routes set to benefit are service between Prince Rupert and Port Hardy, Haida Gwaii and Prince Rupert, and Skidegate and Alliford Bay.

“Today’s announcement to reinstate services to 2014 levels is fantastic news for people on the North Coast,” said Rice. “For too long, commuters from Bella Coola to Prince Rupert and Haida Gwaii have not received adequate service. I’m delighted to welcome the return of sailings for our coastal communities serviced by these three critical ferry routes.”

The New Democrat government is increasing service on 10 ferry routes that were cut in 2014, restoring 2,700 round trip sailings for people living in coastal communities. These service changes come in response to the Redlin report, a comprehensive operating review of the coastal ferry service that identified opportunities to improve services under the current model.

The province will also be amending the Coastal Ferry Act to implement some of Mr. Redlin’s recommendations that will ensure the model is putting people first.

Last April, government improved ferry services by reducing fares on smaller and northern routes by 15%, freezing fares on the major routes and reinstating the 100% discount for seniors’ passenger fares.

Learn More: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2019TRAN0019-000257