P.E.I. Opposition leader ponders elimination of tolls on Confederation Bridge

P.E.I. Opposition Leader Jamie Fox is considering whether or not to introduce a resolution calling on Ottawa to eliminate the toll forcrossing the Confederation Bridge.

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Senator Percy Downe has been asking Island politicians to lobby for the change, maintaining it's not fair that the federal Liberals plan to fully finance a new bridge in Montreal, while Islanders must pay tolls.

"This is a huge issue," said Fox, agreeing the arrangement doesn't seem fair.

But Foxwants to look at the financial impact of eliminating the toll, particularly when it comes to the jobs and tourism generated by the ferry service between Wood Islands and Caribou.

NorthumberlandFerries is the only other way to drive on and off the Island, and has long been touted as an important link in eastern P.E.I.'s economy.

"You know this is just not as simple as taking away a toll on the Confederation Bridge," Fox said.

"I think we have to look at who it is impacting and what the economic impact will be, plus or minus to the province of Prince Edward Island."

One thing that might be considered, said Fox, is removing the bridge toll for people who have to travel off-Island for medical appointments.Fox said that can be quite a burden for some people.

Confederation Bridge charges $46for most cars to use the bridge, which is charged only tovehicles leaving P.E.I.