"Residents on the island portion of this province have faced the threat of work stoppages at Marine Atlantic far too often," said Joyce. "The tourism industry has suffered as a result of this uncertainty in the transportation network. In fact, in recent years, the threat of a strike has deterred tourists rather than any actual work stoppage.

"This decision is something that the Liberal Caucus has been asking for over the past number of years. I believe that the Marine Atlantic ferry service is an essential part of the national transportation grid and should be treated as a section of the Trans Canada Highway. Many of the province’s goods and services are transported through this service."

Joyce also believes that the decision will not eliminate the ability of these unionized workers to negotiate fair contracts.

"There are many mechanisms in place to facilitate the negotiation of fair contracts for essential workers in many sectors. A bolstered tourism industry which uses this essential service will benefit the economy and the workforce at Marine Atlantic."