The provincial government has announced plans to replace its aging fleet of ferries.

Transportation Minister Jim Walsh says a call for proposals will be issued this week to replace the 34-year-old Hamilton Sound.

The new vessel will be used on the Bell Island, St. Brendan's and Fogo Island runs when the regular ferries are being repaired.

It will be able to carry 28 cars and 160 passengers.

Mayor Gary Gosine of Wabana, Bell Island's main community, says he expects the ferry serve the island four or five months a year.

He says the extra capacity will be good for the local economy. "It's a major thing for our community in the fact that our biggest thing right now is tourism," Gosine says.

The new ferry will be built by the private sector and leased back to the government.

Walsh expects it will cost about $16 million and be in service by 2005.

The government plans to commission two more new ferries over the next three years.