Mayor signs petition protesting halt to St. George's ferry
By Ruth O'Kelly-Lynch
|
|
The Warbaby Fox underway recently.
|
|
|
|
St. George's ferry users have signed a petition against Government's announcement it would cease the route for winter.
Mayor Mariea Caisey said she has signed the petition and the news angered many in the community. Yesterday, the Department of Marine and Ports announced effective the St. George's commuter ferry route will be suspended as of Monday November 23.
The statement read: "In effort to streamline ferry operations, the new winter schedule does not include the St. George's ferry commuter route.
"The Department of Marine and Ports would like to express its sincere apologies for any inconvenience this change in scheduling may cause and to also thank the commuters that have utilised this service."
Ms Caisey said approximately 30 people take ferry to Hamilton every morning, herself included.
"I work at the Bank of Bermuda so it is very convenient for me as my office is right next to the terminal," she said.
"For many people it is convenient to avoid the hassle of traffic and go to work or school on the ferry.
"Last winter they cancelled most of the St. George's ferry but kept one morning and one evening trip for commuters on Monday — Friday. We had hoped they would do the same this year."
The Warbaby Fox arrived on the Island three years ago with the specific purpose if providing East End commuters with an alternative option to driving their car. It was christened Warbaby Fox in memory of St. David's Islander the late Charles Hilgrove Gawthorpe (Warbaby) Fox at a ceremony at Penno's Wharf, St. George's yesterday evening.
Able to reach speeds of 33 knots and with a sleek design, the new Connecticut-built catamaran can carry 350 passengers.
What do you think? Should Government provide people in St. George's with a ferry service in the mornings and evening?
