HEBRON, Nfld. — Ferry service along the north and south coast of Labrador will stay the same for 2002-2003, with the exception of southern Labrador ports with access to the Trans-Labrador Highway.

Ernest McLean, Minister of Labrador and Aboriginal Affairs, and Percy Barrett, Minister of Works, Services and Transportation, made the announcement in conjunction with Cartwright L’Anse au Clair MHA Yvonne Jones and Torngat Mountains MHA Wally Andersen.

“We have decided to keep the ferry services status quo until then so that we can further consult with communities about what their marine service needs are for the future,” says McLean. “A transportation committee, made up of representatives from the north coast communities, will be established to seek input from those who depend on marine services and make a final report by the fall.”

Over the next several months, government will do further consultation with communities on the north coast to determine the appropriate method to service northern communities.

“Everyone knew the time would come, as more communities linked up to the highway, when we would have to re-assess our ferry needs along the coast,” says Barrett. “We are now at that stage and look forward to working with the communities to determine specifically what these needs are and develop an appropriate plan.”