Question Period Note: Campobello Island ferry

Campobello Island ferry

• Ferry services are a key part of the transportation system.
• The seasonal ferry service between Deer Island and Campobello Island, New Brunswick, is provided by a private operator, East Coast Ferries Ltd.
• This ferry service generally operates from late-June to September, through the 2020 service has been extended to December 1. In addition, access to the island is available year round by land through the State of Maine.
• Ferry services, particulary to smaller and remote communities, is a key challenge facing provinces.
• The Government of Canada recognizes the leadership of local organizations such as Accessible Campobello and their work with the Government of New Brunswick to examine the merits of a long-term solutions.

• Under the National Marine Policy, Campobello Island was not classified as a remote community, as access to the island is available year-round using a bridge crossing located in Lubec, Maine.
• The Government of Canada removed itself from the direct operation of ferry services with the introduction of the 1995 National Marine Policy.
• This was part of broader federal efforts to place the management of marine infrastructure and services on a commercial footing. Consistent with this direction, Transport Canada does not have funding programs to support intra-provincial ferries. Transport Canada’s role is regulatory to ensure the safety and security of the seasonal ferry service between the mainland of New Brunswick and Campobello Island.
• Recognizing the provincial nature of this issue, the Government of Canada encourages local organizations to continue working with the Government of New Brunswick to examine long-term solutions.

Location: New Brunswick