P.E.I. ferry service to be examined by task force

P.E.I. is setting up a ferry task force to explore options to renew and revitalize the service between Wood Islands and Caribou, N.S.

The ferry service ran into trouble this summer. With the 45-year-old Holiday Island in dry dock for repairs there was only one ferry running for the whole season.

• Ferry service cancelled Friday, but Holiday Island on way home after repairs

Opposition MLA Darlene Compton introduced the motion to strike the task force. With the support from the governing Liberals it was passed unanimously.

Compton who represents Belfast Murray River, which is home to the ferry terminal, said this isn't just about eastern P.E.I.

"It should be important to all Islanders. As the premier said, $27 million into the economy from the fact that we have a ferry and we can't take that lightly," she said.

"It's about the economic impact on the province."

Compton said the task force will explore how much infrastructure money might be available and what vessels might be best to replace the aging ferries on the run currently.

Compton understands the service is a federal responsibility, but the province needs to pay attention to the service too.

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