VICTORIA – Gordon Campbell 's promise of stable ferry fares was broken again as coastal communities in B.C. are hit with yet another unexpected cost, says New Democrat MLA Gary Coons .

“Campbell promised stable fares when he began the privatization of our ferries,” said Ferries critic Coons. “That promise has disappeared along with his concern for coastal communities already devastated by dramatic increases in fares.”Gary Coons

Coons was responding to an announcement today that B.C. Ferries will be adding a new charge for ferry users who need to switch reservations on major routes.

Though Coons welcomes the new ability for people to change reservations, he says users don't need to be repeatedly hit in the pocketbook with every change to company policy.

“This new nine dollar charge is above and beyond the scheduled fare increases that residents and businesses have spoken out loudly against.

“The Campbell government needs to demonstrate their concern for coastal communities by immediately freezing fares and unscheduled costs,” said Coons. “Many British Columbians depend on ferries for their survival, and they should be treated as our marine highways.”

Coons has been visiting coastal communities of B.C. where he says the most consistent message he receives is that ferry fare increases are to dramatic and frequent.

Coons will be in Prince Rupert on Wednesday, January 16 and Bella Coola on January 24.

Gary Coons

North Coast

Gary Coons was re-elected as the MLA for the North Coast on May 12, 2009. He was first elected to the Legislature on May 17, 2005.