ST. JOHN'S, N.L. - The Nunatsiavut government is welcoming efforts in Newfoundland and Labrador to bolster the province's fleet of ferries.
First Minister Daryl Shiwak (Shee-wak) says Nunatsiavut has had issues with ferry services and they welcome a newer, faster and more reliable service.
He says an adequate service with reliable vessels is also needed until a new contract for ferry service comes into force in 2016.
The provincial government is issuing a request for proposals to construct two new ferries.
One would be for a 42-metre vessel that would be used when other boats are out of service because of repairs.
The other would be for a vessel to run between the northern Newfoundland communities of Fogo Island and Change Islands.
The government is also looking for companies to propose how they would meet the needs of all Labrador ferry services, which would require ice-class vessels that can take passengers, vehicles and freight.
Fogo Island Mayor Gerard Foley says the current ferry serving his community is frequently unavailable because it is being repaired, and the small replacement boat they use isn't adequate.
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