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The new ferry service for Tancook Island is facing further delays.

Initially announced by the previous Liberal government in November 2020, the project aimed to improve transportation between the mainland and the two islands.

However, delays have plagued the project, with the latest setback caused by issues with the tender process for ferry terminal construction.

The Department of Public Works has decided to reissue tenders for two out of three ferry terminals needed for the larger vessel, citing concerns over the bid received, which exceeded cost estimates by a significant margin.

Despite this setback, there is some progress to report. Minister Kim Masland confirmed that work on the ferry itself is progressing as planned, with the vessel expected to be completed this summer, well ahead of schedule. However, the delay in terminal construction means that the ferry may need temporary storage until the rest of the infrastructure is completed.