Official launch of the Grand Chief Ben Sylliboy Ferry

The new Little Narrows ferry was officially launched June 20th, as the Grand Chief Ben Sylliboy to honour a well-respected leader who committed himself to serving the Mi’kmaq.

The late Grand Chief Sylliboy, a residential school survivor, promoted Mi’kmaw language, culture and spirituality and played an important role in advancing reconciliation.

Public Works Minister Kim Masland says Grand Chief Ben Sylliboy served as the voice for his people for 25 years and led his community for decades.

"He was a steadfast leader, a wise mentor, and was highly respected by many.

We are honoured to have our new Little Narrows ferry called after him.”

Grand Chief Sylliboy, of We’koqma’q First Nation, died in 2017 at age 76.

The Department of Public Works held a contest involving the We’koqma’q Mi’kmaw School in Whycocomagh and the Rankin School of the Narrows in Iona to name the new Little Narrows ferry.

The successful submission came from Grade 8 student August Francis at We’koqma’q Mi’kmaw School.

The Grand Chief Ben Sylliboy ferry crosses Little Narrows between Inverness Co. and Victoria Co.