New Bell Island ferry deal finalized

The Newfoundland and Labrador government has finalized a deal to have a new ferry built for the Bell Island run.

Transportation Minister Nick McGrath travelled to Bell Island on Monday to tell people that government has worked out a deal with Damen Shipyards from the Netherlands to build the new boat.

Damen Shipyards also has a contract to build a new ferry for Fogo Island and Change Islands.

"Damen will provide the best value to the province, and will provide a quality vessel that will be delivered on time, and on budget," McGrath told reporters Monday.

The 80-metre ferry will be bigger than the Flanders, the current ship on the runbetween Bell Island and Portugal Cove.

Thenew vessel will have a capacity of 200 passengers and 60 vehicles.

The value of the contract is $49.5 million.

The ferry is scheduled for delivery in February 2016.

Local MHA David Brazil lauded the announcement.

"This is a very important day for the people of Conception Bay East," Brazil said. "It is a historic day for the people of Bell Island."