Canada Slashes Confederation Bridge and Ferry Tolls

Prime Minister Mark Carney has announced that, effective August 1, vehicle tolls on the Confederation Bridge will drop from just over $50 to $20, fulfilling a key Liberal campaign promise to make transportation more affordable in Atlantic Canada. The government will also halve fares and eliminate fuel surcharges on federally supported ferry routes connecting Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, and Newfoundland. These measures are designed to boost interprovincial mobility, strengthen economic ties, and help Canadians save millions of dollars annually, particularly those needing frequent medical travel. The changes come as part of a wider federal strategy to reduce internal trade barriers and support regional economies amid escalating U.S. trade challenges. While the reductions are expected to benefit families, businesses, and industries such as P.E.I.'s potato sector, critics caution that the costs could shift to taxpayers. Islanders like Christine MacFadyen, who struggled financially due to medical travel expenses, welcome the cuts, though some advocate for free travel for medical patients.