A review of B.C.'s Coastal Ferry Act will identify improvements to the act which would better allow the commissioner to balance the interests of ferry users with the financial sustainability of the ferry operators, BC Ferries commissioner Gord Macatee announced today.

The review will look into the current price cap model and assess its impact on the affordability of future ferry fares and the sustainability of coastal communities that depend on ferries for travel and commerce. The review is expected to take six months. A final report will be delivered to the B.C. government.

Macatee was appointed commissioner effective May 1. He is an independent officer of the legislature.

Quick Fact:

• The commissioner regulates fares and service levels on BC Ferries' 25 saltwater routes.

Learn More:

To view a letter from Macatee to Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Blair Lekstrom, visit: http://www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca/downloads/BCFC_Letter_to_Minister_Lekstrom_Final_Version_May_12_2011.pdf

To view Lekstrom's response, visit: http://www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca/downloads/2011may18_MBLresponseCFA.pdf

Further information on the commissioner's role is available at:

www.bcferrycommission.com

Contact:

Sarah Harrison
Communications Director
Ministry of Attorney General
250 387-4965
250 896-9700 (cell)