Marine Atlantic report will hopefully lead to action, not fee increases

The federal auditor general’s special report on Marine Atlantic confirms many of the problems that the people of the southwest coast have highlighted over the past number of years with the service and the infrastructure facilities of the crown corporation, says Kelvin Parsons, MHA for the District of Burgeo-Lapoile. 

In her special review of Marine Atlantic, federal Auditor General Sheila Fraser pointed out many of the problems that exist with the ferry service and that a significant investment is required to improve the vessels, scheduling and infrastructure that exist.

“I agree with most of the recommendations in this report, except for potentially increasing the rates to recover more on the cost of supplying this service,” said Mr. Parsons. “Everyone recognizes that the current vessel fleet and local infrastructure in Port aux Basques must be upgraded. I am pleased that the auditor general recognized that the federal government must provide a more significant investment, but I don’t think ferry users should have to pay for the years of neglect shown to us by Ottawa.

“This vital link to our province is a necessity and a constitutional requirement of the federal government. As Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, we deserve a first-class reliable service that is cost-effective and not an obstacle for travel. Currently, the service is a disincentive for tourists and residents wanting to travel and this must change. Excessive costs must also be addressed so tourists and residents of the province are able to access an affordable transportation system in commuting to and from the province.”

Parsons says he will continue to work with the federal government and Marine Atlantic in bringing about improvements that will strengthen the service for the people of the southwest coast, Newfoundland and Labrador, and visitors to our province.

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