14 SEPTEMBER 2009 – Summer traffic statistics just released by BC Ferries clearly indicate that high ferry fares affect the system, and suggest that current user-pay policies require re-examination.
The Ferry Advisory Committees chairs (FACC) believe the evidence is in the apparent connection between traffic and fares.
Traffic increased by 3 % across the system, during a period when BC Ferries offered the major routes a fare discount, and minor routes a fuel rebate. Both reductions lowered fares substantially, and both groups saw traffic rise substantially compared to last year.