David Coon, leader of the Green Party, says he will replace the bridge linking the Lamèque and Miscou islands with Shippagan and the rest of the Acadian Peninsula within the prescribed time frame, which is no later than 2022.

"A Green government won't play politics with infrastructure projects whose timelines are based on public safety standards. Safety must transcend any political or partisan considerations," said Mr. Coon.

When the bridge closes, the two islands become totally isolated, as was the case during the recent ice storm in the region.

"This link is vital to the fishing, peat and berry industry that thrives on the islands. It is also vital for the survival of the Lamèque and Miscou community health centers, whose 40% of their employees come from outside these two islands. The same goes for access to educational and university institutions," says Marie Leclerc, Green Party candidate in Shippagan-Lamèque-Miscou.

The Lamèque-Shippagan Bridge is the essential daily road link for more than 10,000 people. It is a matter of medical emergency, economic, social and educational security, according to the candidate. Nearly 8,000 vehicles pass through it every day, including more than 400 heavy vehicles.*