The delay of the sailing season for the Chi-Cheemaun ferry has been averted, following an announcement of funding to complete upgrades required for the ship to dock in lower water levels.
The Owen Sound Transportation Company announced last week the sailing season would be delayed because low water levels prevented the ship from berthing at existing facilities.
But on Friday, Northern Development Minister Michael Gravelle announced the ministry was prepared to commit $292,000 to cover the costs, according to a statement by Algoma-Manitoulin MPP Mike Mantha.
“We have been working flat-out to get immediate action to ensure local economies and businesses were not further threatened. I was pleased to hear that the provincial government has listened to our concerns and has stated they will cover the repair costs,” Mantha said in a statement.
“I spoke with Minister of Northern Development and Mines Michael Gravelle this morning (May 5). He indicated the ministry was prepared to commit $292,000 to cover repair costs in order to minimize disruptions to this service. I appreciated Minister Gravelle’s attentiveness to this issue and his swift action.”
The Chi-Cheemaun, which runs between Tobermory and Manitoulin Island from May to October, is an important economic driver in the region. It contributes $25 million a year to local economies and transports more than 200,000 passengers.
