The government has made several arguments in defense of their decision. But closer examination shows their points don’t stand up. See what they’re saying, and why they’re wrong.
- Minister Stone: “The Discovery Coast ferry is subsidized by $2500 per vehicle” (3/28/2014) - The Facts: Transportation Minister Todd Stone has been saying BC taxpayers are subsidizing passengers on the Discovery Coast ferry service by about $2500 per vehicle, which suggests taxpayers will save that amount through his service cuts. But as with many…
- Minister Stone: “We’re making the tough decisions that are necessary.” (2/23/2014) - The Facts: Transportation Minister Todd Stone would have you believe he’s looking after your interests. That he had no option but to make these service cuts, cancel the Discovery Coast ferry, and disrupt people all along the BC coast. But…
- “The Discovery Coast ferry service loses money.” (2/23/2014) - The Facts: Does it? The government claims that Route 40 lost $7.35 million in 2013. That is not correct. The operating loss was $4.2 million; the rest is the company’s amortized capital costs and debt service, figures which should not…
- “The Province must make service cuts to ensure the long-term economic sustainability of the ferry service.” (2/23/2014) - The Facts: We agree that BC Ferries needs long-term economic stability. But what is the best way to achieve it? Fares are at an all-time high. Passenger traffic is at a 22-year low. Yet the government’s answer is to continue…
- Minister Stone: “Route 40 last year lost almost $7.5 million and carries approximately 500 vehicles in the entire season. It carries, on average, 15 vehicles. Fifteen vehicles! We do not believe that’s sustainable.” (2/23/2014) - The Facts: The Queen of Chilliwack carried 2,000 vehicles and 7,000 passengers last summer. On the direct route between Port Hardy and Bella Coola – the sailing that is being cancelled – it carried 55 vehicles per trip on average.…
- Minister Stone: “I think it’s very important for this House to understand — and, indeed, for tourism operators to understand — that the Discovery Coast Circle Tour remains intact. The change we’re making here is a change in service.” (2/23/2014) - The Facts: Minister Stone’s plan is to replace the 115-car Queen of Chilliwack with the 16-car Nimpkish, an “over-sized rowboat” as the BC Ferry Coalition described it. So once local traffic is on board, with their boat trailers, trucks, and…
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