The following is the text of a news release from the government of Canada:
(OTTAWA) — Marc Garneau, minister of transport, has announced that the government of Canada is committing $51.9 million to extend contracts for one year for interprovincial ferry services in Atlantic Canada and for the disposal of M/V Princess of Acadia.
This allows for continuous ferry services until March 31, 2017, between Saint John, New Brunswick and Digby, Nova Scotia; between Wood Islands, Prince Edward Island and Caribou, Nova Scotia; and between Iles-de-la-Madeleine, Quebec and Souris, Prince Edward Island.
The government of Canada remains committed to working with the provinces and local communities on a long-term approach for these services.
“The government of Canada is pleased to provide financial support to these communities in Atlantic Canada and eastern Quebec which rely on trade and tourism for economic prosperity and community development," Garneau said. "These ferry services contribute to the regional economy and provide safe and efficient transportation to visitors and residents.”
The funding, announced as part of the budget for 2016, will support operations, maintain and repair ferry assets and dispose of M/V Princess of Acadia, which was taken out of service in July 2015 and replaced by M/V Fundy Rose.
From 2010 to 2015, the government of Canada has invested approximately $240 million to support these Atlantic Canada ferry services. Transport Canada owns four vessels and six ferry facilities in Atlantic Canada that are leased to private operators for a nominal amount.
