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February 4, 2025
Let's Connect: help shape the future of engagement with BC Ferries!
VICTORIA, BC – People in BC are invited to help shape how BC Ferries connects and engages with those it serves. With today’s launch of a new survey and the start of in-person community consultations, this initiative aims to design an inclusive engagement framework that reflects the diverse needs of coastal regions and ferry users throughout the province.
The survey, available in more than 240 languages, seeks input on how communities, businesses and other interest groups want to connect with BC Ferries. It takes approximately 10 minutes to complete and is open until March 18. During the survey period, BC Ferries is also hosting a series of in-person sessions at terminals, on vessels and in communities and has implemented a moderated online discussion and poll to gather further insights. Feedback will help inform the development of a structured approach for future engagement.
“The future of engagement needs to be inclusive, nimble and accessible,” said Morningstar Pinto, Executive Director of External Engagement. “This process is focused on ensuring as many ferry users as possible – whether face-to-face or online – have an opportunity to inform our programs, policy and processes when we are seeking input.”
The new framework will integrate traditional in-person outreach with expanded online options, making it easier for people in different locations, with varied schedules or accessibility needs, to participate.
This initiative builds on BC Ferries’ November 2024 announcement to evolve its approach to engagement. BC Ferries aims to strengthen relationships with a broader range of voices, including those who may have been under-represented. The new model will integrate valuable lessons learned from current and former Ferry Advisory Committee members, while providing more opportunities for First Nations, local governments, businesses and other interested groups to join the conversation.
“We value the time and effort it takes to share input and ideas, and the new model will provide different ways for people to show up,” Pinto added. “In-community conversations aren’t going away. What will be changing is the way we gather and respond to feedback, and our goal is to make sure we shape the future of what that looks and feels like, together.”
Input gathered through the public survey and in-person events will directly inform the new framework, which is set to launch in early May 2025. This feedback will be carefully considered alongside best-practice research, internal assessment and available resources, to shape future BC Ferries community engagements.
To participate in the survey or learn more about scheduled community, terminal and vessel sessions, please visit www.bcferriesprojects.ca/letsconnect.
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