Both major federal parties commit to reducing Confederation Bridge tolls, P.E.I. premier says
P.E.I. Premier Rob Lantz has announced that both major federal parties have committed to reducing or eliminating tolls on the Confederation Bridge. This news comes as Canadians prepare to head to the polls on April 28, with federal leaders kicking off their election campaigns.
Lantz shared on social media that Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre had sent him a letter pledging to remove the tolls on the bridge and review the federal government’s support for Northumberland Ferries if elected. This commitment was quickly followed by a verbal assurance from Prime Minister Mark Carney that Islanders would soon hear “positive news” about bridge tolls and ferry rates.
The premier emphasized that P.E.I. has long advocated for the elimination of tolls on both the Confederation Bridge and Wood Islands Ferry, citing the unfairness and competitive disadvantage they pose to the province in a connected, trade-dependent economy. Lantz expressed satisfaction that federal parties are finally recognizing the need to remove these barriers to trade.
However, details on the federal commitments have not yet been fully disclosed. While Carney has indicated a desire to achieve free trade across the country by Canada Day, it remains unclear whether this includes eliminating bridge tolls and ferry fares by that date. Lantz acknowledged the need for transparency and accountability in ensuring that campaign promises are upheld.
The issue of tolls on the Confederation Bridge and Northumberland Ferries has been a longstanding concern for P.E.I., with many arguing that charging Islanders for access to the mainland is unjust, particularly considering the bridge’s status as a continuation of the TransCanada Highway. The high tolls for both the bridge and ferry services have been a point of contention for residents and businesses alike.
Senator Percy Downe, who has been advocating for toll elimination for over a decade, welcomed the federal government’s commitment to addressing this issue. Drawing parallels to the successful removal of tolls on the Champlain Bridge in Montreal, Downe expressed confidence that promises made by both the Prime Minister and the Opposition Leader would be kept. He stressed the importance of also reducing tolls on the Wood Islands ferry to support the economy of Eastern P.E.I.
As discussions around internal trade barriers and the need for stronger internal trade intensify, the commitment to reducing or eliminating tolls on the Confederation Bridge and Northumberland Ferries marks a significant step towards enhancing trade and economic prosperity in the region. With the federal election campaign in full swing, Islanders will be closely watching to see how these commitments are translated into concrete actions that benefit the province.
