Canada’s National Observer, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
BC islanders are feeling trapped and calling for action on a Covid-19 measure that allows residents to board ferries first as the summer tourist season heats up.
Continue reading Should BC Ferries Board Local Residents First?National Observer, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Residents living in isolated communities without public transit and no access to or desire to own cars always face challenges getting to medical appointments, work, essential services and in maintaining social connections.
But the COVID-19 crisis is driving up the risks while simultaneously curbing traditional workarounds that rural residents rely on to navigate the lack of transit.
Continue reading Do Quadra & Cortes Need Public Transit?National Observer, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Island commuters hit a bit of rough water when ferry service between Quadra Island and Campbell River was cancelled all day Tuesday due to a mechanical issue. A problem made all that much worse because of COVID-19.
Continue reading Tuesday’s BC Ferries Shutdown On QuadraOn Monday, April 13, I was intending to board the ferry in Heriot Bay bound for Cortes Island.
“How will you be paying?” the officer in charge of boarding asked.
“Cash.” I replied. I only had cash, having left my wallet at home on Cortes.
“We don’t take cash… Because of the virus,” he replied.
Continue reading BC Ferries Don’t Take CashNational Observer, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Besides being on alert and feverishly working to stem the spread of germs, COVID-19 is cramping BC Ferries worker Helene Lepage’s style.
“I can’t sing at work anymore,” Lepage said with a wistful laugh. “I’m in theatre. And, no kidding, you can throw spit 25 feet away, easily, with a passionate soliloquy.”
The outgoing, gregarious terminal attendant on Quadra Island has had to rein it in during this new era of physical-distancing.
Continue reading BC Ferries On The Front Line
