An Opposition MP asked how the Government planned to provide greater reliability for a ferry service that has been repeatedly suspended because of mechanical faults.

Douglas De Couto said that he had contacted the transport minister multiple times in recent weeks seeking information about the problem.

The Pink Route, which runs from Hamilton to stops in Paget and Warwick, is understood to have been sidelined since Monday.

It is at least the fourth suspension of the service this year.

The Department of Marine and Ports Services confirmed yesterday that services were “temporarily suspended due to urgent mechanical issues”.

A spokeswoman added: “We apologise for this disruption and thank the public for their patience and understanding while we work to resolve the matter.

“We will provide an update as soon as more information becomes available.”

The service was halted for the same reason twice last month and once in February.

Dr De Couto, the One Bermuda Alliance MP for Warwick North East, said today: “Over the past months, the pink ferry route, which serves Paget and Warwick, has seen a string of mechanical failures, breakdowns and cancellations.

“This route serves a wide variety of people in Paget and Warwick, including seniors, tourists and workers commuting to and from Hamilton.

“Unsurprisingly, cancellations at the last minute or even without notice can upend ferry riders, just like bus cancellations.

“The difference is, there isn’t another ferry coming later.

He added: “The pink ferry is an iconic and historical part of Bermuda’s landscape, particularly tourism. And, for residents of Hinson's Island, especially seniors, the ferry is an important lifeline.

“To their credit, the ferry crew and marine and ports staff have innovated, using tools like WhatsApp to keep riders updated on the ferry status — there are hundreds of members — and juggling parts between multiple boats.

“However, despite their best efforts, they can’t work miracles and provide a reliable ferry service when the equipment is old and worn out, and there isn’t an alternate boat available.

“Ferry users want to know, what are the Government’s plans to get this route working reliably? Does the ferry need an overhaul? Can a back-up boat be provided?

“What can they count on from the Government?”

Dr De Couto said he had contacted Owen Darrell, the Minister of Tourism, Transport, Culture and Sport, several times over the past month by phone and e-mail “asking what the ministry’s plans were”.

He added: “I was grateful that the minister initially pledged to look into the issue, but no information has been provided since then.

“While we can’t expect the Government to magically get old boats working perfectly, we can expect them to keep taxpayers and ferry riders informed, properly plan ahead and make sure this ferry route, like all public transport, works reliably.”

The Government has been asked for comment.

• UPDATE: this story has been updated to include comments from OBA MP Douglas De Couto