The provincial opposition leader wants the government to leave the ‘CAT’ ferry alone.
Zach Churchill says the Nova Scotia-to-Maine ferry brought in $30 million to the economy last year.
Despite an 18 percent increase in passenger numbers so far this season, the province is still committed to an economic impact study on the service.
Churchill says the Houston government spends millions in other areas with no analysis.
“But on this one issue, he has to make sure that the taxpayers are getting value for their dollars. It’s just so inconsistent, and it shows that it’s not about economics, it’s about politics,” said Churchill.
The study is expected to be completed this fall, and will shed light on the ferry service’s performance and its contribution to Nova Scotia’s economy.
Churchill says as the MLA for Yarmouth, it’s been a constant battle to fight for the service.
“Because of the uncertainty that Tim Houston has caused over this ferry service, we have lost millions of dollars in investments in this community.”
He says he’s heard of tourism operators not being able to get financing from banks.
Churchill adds the ferry is critical to southwestern Nova Scotia, and the entire province.
Over 23,000 have booked travel on the ferry for 2024.
But the government says they won’t get ahead of the study.
The contract between the province and Bay Ferries expires after the 2025 sailing season.
