Since 2015, MV Fundy Rose has been ferrying travellers between Saint John, N.B., and Digby, N.S. Image: Bay Ferries
Nova Scotia, along with provincial and municipal leaders, are expressing concern about the potential temporary redeployment of the ferry currently operating between Digby, N.S., and Saint John. They fear it might be redirected to serve another route for part of the upcoming year.
A representative from Transport Canada confirmed to Acadia Broadcasting on Wednesday that they are contemplating the use of MV Fundy Rose to maintain service on the route between Souris, P.E.I., and Îles-de-la-Madeleine, Que. This consideration arises as MV Madeleine II is scheduled for mandatory drydocking next spring.
Hicham Ayoun, a spokesperson for Transport Canada, emphasized that no final decision has been reached.
With no other ferries immanently ready to take over the route, a decision to move the MV Fundy Rose would effectively halt the route until it returns.
The situation has left Nova Scotia’s Public Works Minister, Kim Masland, seeking clarification since she first learned about it from local businesses in her constituency that rely on the ferry to transport goods destined for U.S. markets. Minister Masland has been proactive in reaching out to Transport Canada to gain insight into the rationale behind this potential change and its expected duration. “As it’s a federal issue, we’ve had no involvement,” she noted.
While Minister Masland would prefer the ferry to remain in its current location, she has concerns about the lack of prior notice. She explained, “It costs our taxpayers and New Brunswickers $1 million annually for the service, so I would have expected to receive a call.”
A spokesperson for Bay Ferries, the company responsible for operating the Fundy Rose, said they too have no hand in the decision-making process as to where ferries are deployed.
Transport Canada’s Ayoun acknowledged the challenges that any interruption in ferry service can pose for local communities in the Atlantic region. He reassured that all potential impacts will be meticulously evaluated before any final determination is made.
