The new BC Ferry company's advertised promise that "current routes and service levels will be absolutely assured for the next five years" is not exactly accurate when it comes to the north coast.
The contract between the provincial government and BC Ferry Services Inc. says all existing service levels and routes will be guaranteed for the next five years - with one exception.
That exception is the north coast routes, which are only guaranteed for the next two years.
"Due to the overlapping schedules in the north and mid-coast, and the need to plan for the replacement of ships, the northern services' core service level has been set at status quo for two years," says a statement from the new company, issued last week as it took over the ferry service. "BC Ferry Services has committed to the development of a comprehensive northern strategy by April 2004, including discussion with stakeholders and the province. In developing that strategy, BC Ferry Services will explore options for working with the private sector to improve services, including the potential for daily service between Prince Rupert and Port Hardy."
The new company has a 60-year contract with the province to provide ferry services.
The Dogwood flag, official symbol of BC Ferries for the past 43 years, was retired on April 2 as the new company took over. BC Ferries' existing logo is also being replaced. The new logo will be phased in throughout the fleet over the next year.