Nova Scotia’s Transportation Minister says his department is listening to resident concerns about the state of ferry service between the Tancook Islands and the mainland. Tuesday, in light of the start of the lobster fishing season next Monday and the need for fishermen’s bait on the islands, Geoff MacLellan responded to a question in the Legislature on the issue from Chester-St. Margarets NDP MLA Denise Peterson-Rafuse. He said: “There are concerns about the fuel, bait and passenger numbers. These are things we have to address. There is no excuse. There is no second option here. We have to get people safely back and forth from the Tancooks to the mainland, Mr. Speaker.” The regular ferry, the William G. Ernst, is out of service for major engine repairs. Peterson-Rafuse is supporting residents who use the service who are seeking a new, larger ferry. MacLellan says his department is studying the issue. A charter boat is being used while the Ernst is tied up. Meanwhile, A small, open charter boat is being used to replace the Ernst while its laid up.
MLA Denise Peterson-Rafuse says the vessel is not safe, especially for seniors in wheelchairs needing to get to or from the Tancook Islands. “Because you have to go up and down a ladder on the side of a dock. Bait, fuel, any items, essential items, groceries, so forth. They are not able to transport them,” says Peterson-Rafuse. She will be meeting with the Minister to discuss the issue and push for a new ferry to replace the 30-year-old William G. Ernst.
