EDITOR’S NOTE: This letter to the Honourable Denis Lebel, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, has been reprinted here at the author’s request.
To Transport Canada:
I am writing regarding the delay in start of operation for the Chi-Cheemaun ferry between Tobermory and South Baymouth, Ontario. I use the Chi-Cheemaun on an almost weekly basis during the summer because I do contract work in Bruce and Grey Counties and live on Manitoulin Island.
We have been told the delay is due to low water levels in Lake Huron, which has resulted in the fenders at the docks being too high to protect the boat while docking.
We have many problems on Manitoulin Island due to low water levels in the lake that we have no way to fix, including water lines that no longer reach water, docks that are no longer in water, etc. Fortunately, the problem of the fenders for the Chi-Cheemaun has an obvious solution.
Please arrange to have a crew lower the fenders as soon as possible to allow the ferry to start operations. The crew should be local contractors.
We have many capable and efficient workers here on Manitoulin Island who could quickly mobilize and get the work done.
Thank you for your immediate attention to this urgent matter.
Sincerely, Judith Jones Winter Spider Eco-Consulting Sheguiandah
