P.E.I. Premier Rob Lantz says toll cuts for the Confederation Bridge and ferry service are his top priority after talks with PM Carney.
Toll Reductions Expected After Key Meetings
Prince Edward Island Premier Rob Lantz expressed strong confidence this week that tolls on the Confederation Bridge and Northumberland ferry will soon be reduced. Speaking to CBC News following the Council of the Federation meetings in Huntsville, Ontario, Lantz said he is “10 out of 10” confident the long-awaited fare cuts will be realized.
Federal Support Behind the Push
Lantz’s optimism follows discussions with Prime Minister Mark Carney, who had pledged during his election campaign to slash the bridge tolls by over 50% and reduce ferry fares between P.E.I. and Nova Scotia by a similar margin. Although those promises have yet to materialize, Lantz confirmed they are now at the top of his summer agenda.
“We’re going to make this happen,” Lantz emphasized. “It’s my number one priority for the remainder of the summer to get this over the line.”
No Exact Timeline, But Progress Underway
Despite his strong confidence, the premier acknowledged that legal and administrative complexities prevent setting a precise deadline for implementation. Work is ongoing to clear those hurdles. “There’s a lot of work behind the scenes that needs to be done, but we’re moving forward,” he said.
Trade Tensions With U.S. Also in Focus
In addition to transportation costs, Canadian premiers discussed the looming trade challenges with the United States during the three-day summit. The talks come amid escalating tariff threats from U.S. President Donald Trump, who has proposed raising duties on Canadian goods to 35% starting August 1.
Lantz said the federal government, led by Carney, appears committed to holding out for a fair trade agreement. “The reality is, dealing with Trump is always a bumpy road,” Lantz commented, adding that any deal reached may require ongoing negotiations even after the deadline.
A Changing Relationship with the U.S.
The P.E.I. premier acknowledged that Canada’s trade relationship with the U.S. has fundamentally shifted in recent years. “That change may outlast Trump,” Lantz warned, though he expressed faith in Carney’s strategic approach to U.S. diplomacy.
“It’s a complex issue, but they’re working hard. I hope we’ll have a resolution by August 1 to give us some certainty,” he said.
Looking Ahead to 2026 and Beyond
Premier Lantz will assume the role of chair of the Council of the Federation on August 1. He announced that the next summer meeting of Canada’s premiers will be hosted in Prince Edward Island from July 21–23, 2026 — a symbolic opportunity to highlight progress on infrastructure and interprovincial connectivity.
As toll negotiations advance and trade tensions unfold, Lantz’s leadership will remain under close national scrutiny.
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