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- calendar_today November 9, 2026
Tantramar Liberal Association Stands Against Proposed Highway Toll
The Tantramar Liberal Association has publicly declared its opposition to a provincial plan that would introduce highway tolls at the border between New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. The association, representing the interests of the Tantramar region, voiced its concerns in a recent Facebook post, stating that the tolls could negatively impact both local residents and the business community.
Details of the Toll Plan
The plan, announced in the Liberal government's budget in March, would introduce toll booths at Aulac starting in 2028. Notably, these tolls would apply exclusively to out-of-province drivers crossing into New Brunswick. The government estimates that the initiative could generate $10.4 million in annual revenue.
Concerns Raised About Economic and Cross-Border Impact
The Tantramar Liberal Association argues that the proposed tolls may deter cross-border traffic from Nova Scotia, which they believe contributes significantly to the local economy. They referenced a survey of 653 residents from Amherst, Nova Scotia, which suggested that these individuals collectively spend $4.4 million in New Brunswick. The association fears that imposing a toll could jeopardize this spending and, consequently, the economic well-being of the region.
Party Members Share Concerns
The association further stated: “As an association representing the interests of our local communities and our party members, we believe it’s important to speak openly when a provincial policy raises legitimate concerns for the people and businesses of Tantramar.”
Interprovincial Trade and Policy Consistency
In their statement, the Tantramar Liberals also characterized the toll proposal as a “violation” of Prime Minister Mark Carney’s efforts to lower trade barriers between provinces and promote a singular national economy. The association believes that the tolls could contradict broader efforts to enhance interprovincial trade cooperation.
Government Response and Broader Support
Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Chuck Chiasson commented on the association's opposition, stating that his department has received a range of feedback from the Tantramar region and across the province. “We’re hearing from people who are not happy with the tolls. We’re hearing from other people who are OK with the tolls,” Chiasson said. He also noted that New Brunswick is currently the only Maritime province without highway tolls, pointing out that Nova Scotia operates a toll plaza between Amherst and Truro, and Prince Edward Island's Confederation Bridge is subject to a federal toll.
Local and Provincial Voices
Cathy Rogers, former Liberal finance minister and now a resident of Tantramar, indicated participation in the association's post though she declined an interview. Merrill Fullerton, the riding association president, also turned down interview requests but emphasized that the public message was intended to inform the wider community of the association's concerns. Green MLA Megan Mitton, who represents Tantramar, remarked that the Facebook post underlines a lack of community support for the toll proposal.
Looking Ahead
According to Fullerton, Tantramar Liberals remain hopeful that Premier Susan Holt’s governing style—characterized by empathy and logical decision-making—could lead to a reconsideration of the toll plan. However, Minister Chiasson’s remarks suggest that government support for imposing the toll remains firm, amidst varied opinions across New Brunswick.
Related coverage
Source: cbc.ca.
