Charlottetown, March 23, 2025 – Prince Edward Island (P.E.I.) Premier Rob Lantz says he has received a verbal commitment from the federal government led by Prime Minister Mark Carney to eliminate tolls on the Confederation Bridge and reduce fares for Northumberland Ferries, promising “positive news” for Islanders in the near future.

Lantz’s office issued a statement late Friday evening following a meeting between Canada’s premiers and Carney in Ottawa. In his release, Lantz expressed optimism that the barriers imposed by transportation costs between P.E.I. and the mainland would soon be a thing of the past.

“Thank you to the federal government for hearing my concerns — and the concerns of all Islanders — and committing to ending these barriers for Islanders and our economy,” Lantz was quoted as saying.

Tolls and Fares Under Scrutiny

Islanders have long criticized the high cost of crossing the Confederation Bridge, which connects P.E.I. to New Brunswick, and the ferry service between Wood Islands, P.E.I., and Caribou, Nova Scotia. Many argue that these tolls place an unfair financial burden on residents and impede economic growth by increasing the cost of transportation for goods and services.

Currently, the Confederation Bridge toll for a standard passenger vehicle is $50.25, while round-trip fares for the Northumberland Ferries hover around $84 for vehicles during peak season. For many Islanders who travel frequently or depend on transporting goods, these costs have been a longstanding source of frustration.

“For too long, Islanders have borne the burden of these tolls,” Lantz said. “This commitment from the federal government is a step toward making life more affordable for families, workers, and businesses in P.E.I.”

Conflicting Signals from Ottawa

However, the federal government’s position on eliminating the tolls appears less definitive. While Lantz claims the Carney government is committed to “ending these barriers,” P.E.I. Liberal MP Sean Casey offered a slightly different take.

In a post on social media, Casey indicated that the federal plan was focused on “reducing” tolls rather than outright eliminating them.

“The federal government is working to ease the cost burden for Islanders by reducing tolls and ferry fares,” Casey wrote. “I expect details to be announced soon, but Islanders should know that relief is on the way.”

Casey’s comments suggest that while toll reductions may be imminent, a complete elimination may not be on the table — at least not yet.

Economic and Political Implications

The potential removal of tolls on the Confederation Bridge and ferry system could have significant implications for the P.E.I. economy. Tourism, agriculture, and small businesses — all pillars of the Island’s economy — would benefit from reduced transportation costs, making P.E.I. a more attractive destination and reducing costs for goods entering and leaving the province.

The move also carries significant political weight. Carney’s government, still in the early days of its mandate, is keen to solidify support in Atlantic Canada, where voters have shown increasing frustration over rising costs and economic challenges.

“This is a game-changer for P.E.I.,” said economist James Beal. “Eliminating or reducing tolls will stimulate economic growth, increase mobility, and create more opportunities for Islanders.”

Premier Lantz Pushes for Follow-Through

Despite the positive signals, Lantz acknowledged that Islanders will be watching closely to ensure the federal government follows through on its verbal commitment.

“We will be holding the federal government accountable for this promise,” Lantz said. “Our people deserve action, not just words.”

Lantz reiterated that his government would continue to work with Ottawa to ensure the measures are implemented quickly and effectively.

Federal Announcement Expected Soon

A formal announcement detailing the changes to the bridge tolls and ferry fares is expected in the coming days, according to sources familiar with the discussions.

“Islanders can expect clarity very soon,” said a senior federal official who requested anonymity. “The prime minister understands the importance of this issue and is committed to delivering results for P.E.I.”

Until then, Islanders remain cautiously optimistic that relief is finally on the horizon, and that years of calls to eliminate transportation costs between P.E.I. and the mainland may soon be answered.