Since April 1st of this year we have been enjoying a 5% reduction in our ferry fares (which will continue indefinitely). This was given to Route 20 because the community driven schedule saved BC Ferries $100,000 annually above and beyond what the Province mandated. The savings that were achieved with the new schedule in the previous two fiscal years were discussed with BC Ferries representatives and the FAC on Friday September 23rd.
We are pleased to announce that BC Ferries will pay Thetis and Penelakut Islands $100,000 each to be directed towards a community investment. The FAC has concluded that the money will be used for an expansion of Forbes Hall. The FAC felt that the Hall positively impacts the largest number of Islanders on a yearly basis.
I would like to sincerely thank Bill Dickie and Dave Knowles who got this whole thing started and members of the FAC who have worked on this initiative since early 2012. Thanks also to BC Ferries for honouring their commitment to return additional savings to our communities.
Keith Rush, Co-Chair Route 20 FAC
Ph: 250-416-0013
Cell: 250-732-2766