B.C. Ferries is listening to customer feedback

Re: “Gulf Islands suffer from B.C. Ferries decisions,” letter, Aug. 29.

The ferry service to the Southern Gulf Islands integrates four routes, four vessels and seven ports. As currently configured, it is complex, costly and at times underutilized. This network was largely exempt from recent service-level adjustments.

With two new vessels entering service in 2017, B.C. Ferries is investigating ways to improve the effectiveness and utilization of SGI sailings.

The process includes international transport experts, front-line employees, island residents, ferry advisory committees, publicly available draft schedules, surveys and public open houses. There is transparency and inclusion for ferry users.

Recently, B.C. Ferries presented draft schedules at public open houses. This is the second step of a four-step process. These drafts are intended to generate feedback, and B.C. Ferries expects the schedules will change as a result of public comment. Some island residents believe they are already firm; this is not so.

We understand the draft schedules might cause concern to some. We have heard these concerns and will incorporate them into the final schedules. At the same time, the drafts have been greeted with strong support from others. B.C. Ferries is listening to all feedback as we find the appropriate balance.

The process is not finished and no decisions have been made. The next consultation step is a public survey this fall seeking further feedback. Final schedules will not be determined until spring 2016 and will come into effect in spring 2017. We encourage all interested parties to make their views known to us as we endeavour to improve the SGI service. Mark Collins Vice-president, strategic planning & community engagement B.C. Ferries