Days before the upcoming election in Newfoundland and Labrador, political parties addressed the significant increase in spending to maintain four ferries in the province this year, as revealed by a recent access-to-information request by CBC. The province allocated $18,141,570.50 in 2025 for the MV Legionnaire, MV Flanders, MV Veteran, and MV Beaumont Hamel, covering repair costs of approximately $5.3 million and chartering swing vessels at a cost of $12.7 million.
During a campaign stop in Port au Choix, Progressive Conservative leader Tony Wakeham emphasized his commitment to enhancing the provincial ferry fleet by adding four new vessels. Wakeham highlighted the aging condition of the current ferries, expressing the urgency for replacements and advocating for local construction of the new vessels to boost the provincial economy.
Despite the absence of a specific cost estimate in the party’s platform for the new ferries, the Progressive Conservatives plan to spread out the expenses over the lifespan of the assets, citing the previous cost of $60 million each for the last two ferries procured by the province.
Opposing the government’s handling of ferry spending, NDP leader Jim Dinn criticized the lack of transparency and accountability exhibited by the Liberals. Dinn condemned the substantial increase in expenditure as a reflection of poor governance and mismanagement, emphasizing the need for a more responsible and honest approach towards taxpayer funds.
In response, the Liberals defended their financial decisions, asserting that they have prudently allocated funds to support ferry services. Liberal party spokesperson Ben Murphy rebuked Wakeham’s proposed substantial expenditure on new vessels, labeling the promises unrealistic and lacking a viable funding strategy. The Liberals acknowledged the challenges faced during the past summer, including delays and service disruptions, but affirmed their commitment to balancing service maintenance with financial responsibility.
The party assured residents of their dedication to providing safe and reliable ferry services for community transportation needs. The ongoing debate over ferry spending and service provision remains a key issue in the lead-up to the provincial election.
