THE ISSUE

The quasi-privatization of BC Ferries has been controversial. Many who depend on a system they see as a public service akin to highways fear their needs are not adequately protected. Some aspects of the system, such as reservation fees, are beyond the scrutiny even of the provincial ferry commissioner.

Of course, it's complicated

In the past, fares were subject to Cabinet approval, BC Ferries decisions were highly political, and perhaps as a result the company didn't always respond well to challenges and opportunities.

The bottom line

It would be difficult if not impossible to revert to the old management structure. Does your party favour such a move? If not, would you make other changes to the current system? If so, what are they?

THE ANSWERS

Green Party of BC

Ferries are part of the essential transportation infrastructure of B.C. They must remain in public hands and the Green party would restore them to the status as a full crown Corporation. In regard to the recent outsourcing of new ferry construction to Germany, a BC Ferries Crown Corporation would have seen the overall value to B.C.'s economy in building the ferries here.

Democratic Reform BC

We acknowledge the difficulties and potential disruptions to stable ferry services that could result from an attempt to revert to the old management structure. The party, however, is dedicated to ensuring B.C. has an effective and efficient ferry system that serves the public interest. We will amend the Coastal Ferries Act to ensure that the public interest in maintaining the British Columbia working waterfront and the provincial shipyard industry is protected when vessels and services are purchased. The primary goal of the corporation should be to serve the good of its shareholders - the public. Robert Allington, policy chair, 250-595-7803 [email protected]

NDP

The platform promises to "make the BC Ferry Corporation accountable to British Columbians by restoring it as a crown corporation" and treating it "as an extension of our network of highways. The party claims privatizing BC Ferries increases GST costs and interest charges.of $8.5 million and $22.1 million respectively in 2003-04. The party campaigned vigorously in Powell River-Sunshine Coast, Green party leader Adriane Carr's riding, on this issue. The NDP also decries the Liberals' decision to prevent a BC company from bidding on three new large ferries - a contract worth $325 million that is shielded from public scrutiny.

BC Liberals

Clearly the Liberals are committed to its course, which they argue will result in benefits to the public through competitive bidding and increased flexibility. At the Tsawwassen terminal, travellers will soon enjoy a privately run Lonsdale Quay-style public market providing food and other goods, which can't help but be an improvement on the previous facilities. However, financially marginal services such as the cafeteria on one Southern Gulf Islands route, where some trips are as long as three hours, may be shut down. Fares on some routes may increase sharply, and service can potentially be completely contracted out to private operators.