Civic leaders discussing BC Ferries fare hikes at UBCM today
Posted September 23, 2014 9:56 am.
This article is more than 5 years old.
WHISTLER (NEWS1130) – We could see plenty of fireworks at Day 2 of the Union of BC Municipalities convention in Whistler.
A report that’s critical of fare hikes at BC Ferries is among the topics on today’s agenda.
Victoria Mayor Dean Fortin says there has to be another way for the Crown corporation to make ends meet. “We recognize they have challenges. But really, it’s shortsighted… They’re not thinking it all the way through.”
“To see these ferry hikes that have a direct impact on the amount of visitors, a direct impact on the costs of shipping goods and foods to all the residents of Vancouver Island is concerning,” he adds.
The report finds the provincial economy is losing $2 billion in economic activity due to those fare hikes.
However, Transportation Minister Todd Stone says the research only “speculates” on conclusions and doesn’t provide any solutions. The NDP has called his comments “irresponsible.”
