Fare policy to be reviewed by BC Ferry Commissioner
Posted May 19, 2011 2:09 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
VANCOUVER (NEWS1130) – BC Ferry Commissioner is going to take a fresh look at our ferry law to better balance the interests of ferry users and make sure BC Ferries makes money. The announcement comes just days after BC Ferries’ decision to bring back fuel surcharges.
Gord Macatee says how much ferry users pay is top of mind. He doesn’t plan to wade into how much taxpayers subsidize the ferry system, though.
“The letters that we’re receiving, and at this point we’ve received over 150 letters and emails from the public, are very focused on the fare issue and concerns about the future affordability and the effect that that has on the communities they live in.”
BC Ferries CEO David Hahn welcomes the review but warns they’re under pressure from rising fuel prices, amongst other things.
“I mean, that is something that we don’t have control over, but has, obviously, a very big impact on fares. So looking at all this is probably a good idea.”
Meanwhile, Transportation Minister Blair Lekstrom says Macatee will bring a set of eyes on ferry fares.
“He has heard very clearly, I think, from the public, like I have, an eight per cent increase particularly- that’s the higher of the two that were put forward- is not sustainable, I would agree with that. Four per cent, it’s on the high end. I know that raises issues.”
Lekstrom says they’re still working out how much money to give Macatee to do his review, which is expected to take half a year.
