NEWS RELEASE
Office of the Official Opposition
For Immediate Release
Apollo service should be extended
Weather and ice conditions in the Strait of Belle Isle are currently not an obstacle to ferry travel and the Apollo service between Labrador and Newfoundland should be extended indefinitely until these challenges dictate otherwise, says Opposition Leader Yvonne Jones.
I made a formal request yesterday to Transportation and Works Minister Tom Hedderson to extend this ferry service indefinitely until ice and weather challenges become a problem, said Ms. Jones. The Apollo service is a very important connection for passengers and freight in our region and extending the service would be of great benefit to people living in Labrador. With the recent opening of phase three of the Trans Labrador Highway, more people will be looking to use this ferry service on an extended basis.
An announcement that the ferry service will be extended will provide stability and alleviate concerns that the service would be discontinued with little notice. Under current conditions, there is no reason why the Apollo cannot continue running for an extended period of time and I encourage government to keep the service in operation as long as conditions permit. The minister indicated he is reviewing the situation and should make a decision soon.- 30 -
Media Contact:
Darrell Mercer
Director of Communications
Office of the Official Opposition
Tel: (709) 729-6151 or (709) 687-0477