Residents of British Columbia have until Friday, Dec. 21 to provide input into the future of coastal ferry service.

The public consultation and engagement in-person meetings have ended but British Columbians can still provide input through the coastal ferries engagement website: http://coastalferriesengagement.ca/

The site provides information about the challenges facing the coastal ferry system.

There is also a discussion guide and feedback form, which invites feedback on what strategies should be pursued to achieve the long-term vision of connecting coastal communities in an affordable, efficient and sustainable manner.

A webinar will be held on Tuesday, Dec. 11, 2012, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. for those who have been unable to attend an in-person meeting. The webinar will include a presentation of the discussion guide and provide opportunities for comments and questions. If you are interested in participating in the webinar, please email: coastalferriesengagement@gov.bc.ca

Faced with declining ridership and rising costs, the B.C. government has been gathering public input on considerations to achieve $26 million in service adjustments that will help ensure we have a sustainable, affordable and efficient ferry service for years to come. During the past five weeks representatives of the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure have held 40 small group meetings and public open houses in 30 communities seeking input.

The independent review of the Coastal Ferry Act indicated that ferry users, the ferry operator and the B.C. government all need to be part of the solution to address the challenges facing the coastal ferry system in British Columbia.

B.C. is committed to providing a sustainable coastal ferry service that is safe, reliable and efficient and meets the needs of the people of British Columbia.

Media Contact:

Kate Trotter
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
250 356-8241