P.E.I. premier wants 2nd ferry for Caribou-Wood Islands run

P.E.I. Premier Wade MacLauchlan is calling for Transport Canada to immediately secure a second ferry to run between the Island and Nova Scotia.

In a written release, the premier said there's a need for action following a temporary disruption of ferry service Tuesday morning from Wood Islands, P.E.I.

"The lack of action and solutions on the part of Transport Canada is disappointing and unacceptable," said MacLauchlan.

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The MV Confederation, the only ferry operated by Northumberland Ferries currently doing the run, had a mechanical problem and the 5 a.m. crossing was delayed.

It's the second disruption in service this season.

Province requested answers

The MV Holiday Island was taken out of service for the season when it was found to need more maintenance work than initially thought.

MacLauchlan said the provincial government has been in contact with Transport Canada over the last two months reiterating the need for two fully operational ferries.

The lack of action and solutions on the part of Transport Canada is disappointing and unacceptable.- P.E.I. Premier Wade MacLauchlan

The premier said the province reached out to the federal government about securing a ferry from within the region immediately after being informed of the decreased service.

MacLauchlan said he had numerous discussions with Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Dwight Ball about the use of a private sector ferry and directed officials to follow up with Transport Canada.

MacLauchlan added the provincial government has requested answers from Northumberland Ferries as to why any maintenance issues weren't identified prior to the beginning of peak tourism season and what plans have been developed to prevent any future disruptions.

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