FREDERICTON (CNB) – The new ferry that will serve passengers travelling from Grand Manan to Blacks Harbour will arrive later than expected, Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Claude Williams reported today.
"Before the Grand Manan Adventure can be accepted by the provincial government, it must pass final sea trials in Panama City, Florida, where the ferry is being constructed," said Williams. "While undergoing these trials on Sunday, June 26, the ferry experienced mechanical issues after overheating caused the failure of a pipe. Repairs must be undertaken before we can accept the vessel from Eastern Shipbuilding Inc."
There will be no additional costs to the ferry project because of the repairs.
"This delay is unfortunate but necessary, as we work to ensure that the ferry we accept is in excellent working order, and we are satisfied it meets all safety requirements," said Williams.
The summer ferry schedule for Grand Manan officially begins on June 30, and both the Grand Manan V and the Grand Manan will resume their regular operating schedules to accommodate tourist, residential and commercial traffic.
29-06-11