Trudeau commits to P.E.I.-N.S. ferry service

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, scheduled to arrive on P.E.I. Tuesday, did not wait to step on the Island before discussing his government's commitment to the province's ferry service.

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Northumberland Ferries which runs the ferry that connects P.E.I. to Nova Scotia has struggled this year with one of its two ferries out of commission.

"Transport Canada, and indeed the federal government, is committed to ensuring ferry service for Canadians, and we will continue to work very, very hard to ensure that that's a reality for everyone," said Trudeau, speaking to reporters in Bridgetown, N.S.

"I look forward to discussing it with Premier MacLauchlan this afternoon."

Ferry built in 1971

Trudeau made reference to the mechanical troubles with the MV Holiday Island, which was taken out of service mid-June. The ferry was found to need more steel work than was originally thought.

The vessel, which used to serve the P.E.I.- New Brunswick route before the Confederation Bridge opened, was built in 1971.

Last week MacLauchlan called on Transport Canada to immediately find a second ferry for the P.E.I.-Nova Scotia service.

Northumberland Ferries has added extra crossings for the MV Confederation, but there have still been complaints about delays in being able to get on a boat.

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