While MP Patrick Weiler says “there’s nothing the people on the Coast would want more” than an additional ferry for Route 3 and that he sees “some positive opportunities” to build more, he didn’t indicate whether it would be a priority during the Liberal government’s era of blockbuster spending.
The West Vancouver-Sunshine Coast-Sea to Sky Country Liberal said he would “certainly like to see some additional funding for a second ferry” and that it would “drive a lot of positive change,” while fielding questions during a public meeting hosted by the Sechelt and District Chamber of Commerce on May 21.
The talk focused on the government’s budget, which includes $101.4 billion in recovery spending, under debate in the House of Commons.
When asked whether an opportunity exists for the federal government to provide the $150 million needed for a second ferry for the Langdale-Horseshoe Bay route, Weiler identified pending infrastructure funding for Langdale terminal upgrades as already in the works, “but I definitely see some positive opportunities on building more ferries,” he added.
In 2017 BC Ferries was approved for $17 million in federal funds to assist with the upgrades. However, the company hasn’t received any of that funding to date because the project has been placed on hold, according to BC Ferries public affairs executive director Deborah Marshall.
The Sunshine Coast isn’t alone in its call for a second ferry. Bowen Island residents told Weiler recently that securing an electric ferry is a priority for the island.
“I definitely see some opportunities there,” said Weiler, before adding it’s “a bit tricky” because most infrastructure agreements aren’t meant to go to the province and “the structure of BC Ferries causes some challenges.”
“Your last guest would have been able to speak to some of the avenues of getting an additional ferry, but I won’t weigh in on those,” he said, referencing a presentation to the chamber last month by BC Ferries CEO Mark Collins.
