NEWS RELEASE
For Immediate Release 2008TRAN0093-001827 Dec. 1, 2008	Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
GOVERNMENT KICKS OFF 33% REDUCTION IN FERRY FARES

VICTORIA – Today marks the first day of the provincial government’s 33 per cent reduction in coastal ferry fares for December and January, announced Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Kevin Falcon.

 

“Bringing down fares was a proactive business decision made to mitigate the impact of the current global economic crisis,” said Minister Falcon. “This action will help our coastal communities and our retail and tourism sectors during the upcoming holiday season.”

 

On Oct. 22, Premier Gordon Campbell announced a Ten Point Plan to protect BC’s economy amidst the global financial crisis. The legislature was recalled Nov. 20 to approve the new plan.

 

The plan includes a 33 per cent reduction in ferry fares for December and January. The Prince Rupert to Skidegate ferry route will receive the 33 percent discount for December, January and February. This is because the terminal will be closed for most of January for upgrade work to accommodate the Northern Expedition. While the terminal upgrades are underway, passenger ferry service will not be available.

 

The plan also includes the restoration of full service on major routes and the Sunshine Coast route. This action is restoring the temporary service reductions that were announced by BC Ferries on Oct. 1.

 

Under the new 33 per cent reduction, a family of two travelling from Swartz Bay to Tsawwassen on BC Ferries in a vehicle one way will save $22.80 and they will save $45.60 for a round trip. A family of four travelling from Swartz Bay to Tsawwassen on BC Ferries in a vehicle one way will save $31.40, and save $62.80 for a round trip.

 

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Media contact:	Dave Crebo Communications Director Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure 250 387-7787
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