Dear Prime Minister Carney: B.C. pays taxes too.

Last week, Ottawa announced $7.3 million for a sediment basin near a ferry terminal in Prince Edward Island. Meanwhile, British Columbians face aging ships, crumbling terminals and a potential 30 per cent ferry fare hike.

The federal government covers about 43 per cent of operating costs for Atlantic ferry services, compared with just three per cent for BC Ferries.

That’s roughly $125 of your taxes spent on ferries per person in Atlantic Canada and only $6 per person in B.C.

On top of that, Mark Carney cut ferry fares in half on Atlantic ferry routes in 2025 to support the regional economy in the Maritimes.

But B.C.’s economy depends on reliable, affordable ferry service too.

BC Ferries carried 23.3 million passengers and 10 million vehicles last year, along with an estimated $8 billion in goods.

B.C.’s 1977 agreement with Ottawa gives us an annual federal contribution adjusted for inflation, but it doesn’t account for demand or ridership.

The new provincial government has promised to renegotiate that agreement. We welcome their commitment and want to see action.

A new funding agreement should also include federal investment in building and maintaining ferries in B.C., creating skilled jobs and strengthening Canada’s shipbuilding capacity.

Economic modelling shows that constructing four major ferries in Canada could generate $1.5 billion in GDP, support more than 10,000 person-years of employment and produce $413 million in government revenue.

We also need to invest in our ferry workers. Right now, people entering the marine industry face significant financial barriers, including gaps in access to Employment Insurance while completing their required training.

Expanding EI support for marine training would help recruit more workers and address crew shortages that lead to cancelled sailings.

We need Mark Carney to recognize the economic value of our ferries and invest accordingly.

With the federal budget coming down November 5, now is the time for B.C.’s new government to push Ottawa for its fair share.