Downe right about bridge tolls

Sen. Percy Downe is to be commended and supported as the staunchest Liberal, Senator, and Islander working on our behalf to get a fare shake in transportation.

He contends, and I think rightly, that Islanders and all Confederation Bridge users, should be treated equally and fairly by paying the same amount as Quebecers will to use the new Champlain Bridge: that is nothing.

The excuse given by the federal minister responsible does not hold water on two counts. As the Senator points out, that bridge -replacement or not - was not always free, and having been changed once, can be changed again. Secondly, whether it was ever free or not is immaterial. It is within the powers of the federal government to change the rules to ensure Islanders are treated fairly.

The Senator also cites the Prime Minister’s response (which I consider an insult to our intelligence) to a question at a town hall meeting, that he shares the concern, and would inform the Island MP’s.

Reality check, Prime Minister; I think (hope) those MPs had already informed you of this issue.

The resolution is within your powers, not theirs.

In regard to actually replacing the toll, I do think the Senator is making things unnecessarily complicated. All that is necessary is either/or both a clicker, visual checker at the bridge entry, and then have the government periodically reimburse the bridge company rather than travelers.

Tom Connor, Charlottetown