New Brunswick’s governing Liberal party is facing renewed heat for its plan to install tolls on the highway in Aulac, but this time the concerns are coming from within. On Wednesday, the Tantramar Liberal Association announced it has made it clear to the Liberal Party that it disagrees with the toll. “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,” it said in a social media post. Riding president Merrill Fullerton did not provide CTV News Atlantic with an interview, but in an emailed statement said the association is optimistic the toll will be reconsidered. The province announced plans for the toll booth in March as a way to recoup some costs amid a projected $1.39-billion deficit. That figure has since grown to $1.66 billion. The toll is expected to be in place by 2028 and would not be applied to New Brunswick vehicles. The measure has been criticized by neighbouring Nova Scotians, as well as the Atlantic Chamber of Commerce. “New tolls = higher costs for trade, trucking, tourism & commuters. We’re also calling for an end to tolls at Cobequid Pass. Atlantic Canada needs fewer barriers, not more,” the chamber wrote in an X post in March. New Brunswick Transportation Minister Chuck Chiasson told reporters on Friday he’s heard from locals on both sides of the debate. “I’m getting some communications from people all over the province, from people that are saying it’s time that we charge people to use our roads, other provinces are doing it,” he said. Incoming Green Party Leader and Tantramar MLA Megan Mitton said the association’s post is indicative of the community’s opposition to the toll. “We know how connected our communities are on either side of the border and this will undermine that,” she said. Revenue from the toll will be directed to road and bridge maintenance, according to the province. For more New Brunswick news, visit our dedicated provincial page.
