Holiday Island ferry troubles worrying for tourism season, say politicians

The mayor of Georgetown is concerned having one of two Northumberland ferries out of commission for several weeks this summer will have a negative impact on tourism in the eastern part of P.E.I.

• Northumberland Ferries says MV Holiday Island won't enter service as planned

Lewis Lavandier said he's not surprised a vessel the age of the MV Holiday Island is in need of repairs.

He used to work on it back when it was part of the Marine Atlantic Ferry Service.

"It has pretty well seen its day I would think, and I am not surprised that it is getting to the point where they are going to have some problems with it for sure," said Lavandier. "Tourism is going to decrease some if it's out of service for too long a period."

Lavandier called the Holiday Island a lovely little ship when it was built. He says itserved its purpose, but he thinks it's time for a new ferry.

In touch with Nova Scotia

Economic Development and Tourism minister Heath MacDonald said he has been in touch with Nova Scotia's tourism minister and with federal government officials about the situation.

"I think everybody is on the same page," said MacDonald. "We have to analyze the situation first and see when and what is going to become of the service and how it is going to affect Prince Edward Island.

"But obviously tourism is very important. We are gearing up for one of our biggest years yet. But additionally to that, exports are also as important and they drive our economy as well. So we have a couple of things there on the table that we are very concerned about but hopefully we'll get through this."

MacDonald said there will likely be a meeting with everyone involved to come up with a plan if necessary, but he's hoping the repairs will be done quickly and everything can move forward as expected for the tourism season.

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