The chief of the Beausoleil First Nation on Georgian Bay says his community is about to lose one of its main links to the rest of the world.
The ferry that runs between Christian Island and Cedar Point is a lifeline for the 800 resident, who call the island home. However, it can't always make the journey safely.
“Weather is a big factor, especially with ice as you see today the ice is coming in,” says Mike Cass, captain of the M.V. Sandy Graham.
The ferry is more than 50 years old and the hull is rusting. Beausoleil Chief Roland Monague says he's just not sure how much longer it'll last.
“Continuing to operate it in these conditions we are taking that chance and a big chance,” Monague says.
According to the First Nation's chief, the federal government committed to replacing the ferry back in 2004, but that never happened. He's hopeful the new Liberal government will find money in the spring budget for a new one.
On Monday, a spokesperson for Indigenous and Northern Affairs told CTV News that safe and reliable access to the mainland is essential; noting the department has been working with the Beausoleil First Nation on a replacement ferry. However, it said nothing about a timeline for a new one.
The chief says there's no time to waste.
“Our kids go to school every day. They got to use this vessel, it's a need. This is our lifeline.”
When weather conditions permit, an ice road is used between the island and the mainland. So far this winter, the ice has not been thick enough.
