The provincial government is defending its decision to hold off on awarding a long-term contract for freight service to Labrador's coastal communities.

Transportation Minister Tom Hedderson said the response to a request for proposals to provide the service was disappointing.

"I'm not satisfied with what the results of the previous RFP was and we're trying to make absolutely sure that we put in the boat that's absolutely necessary,” said Hedderson.

Hedderson said the government has issued another request for proposals in an effort to find a ship for a long-term contract.

Labrador Marine Incorporated, which operates the M/V Astron, was the only company to respond to a request for proposals. It was given a three-year contract instead of the proposed 15-year contract.

“The Astron is a proven boat and a proven company. I'm very confident that they will, as they did last year, provide that service for the north coast that's absolutely necessary,” said Hedderson.

The Astron is set to leave for the north coast of Labrador on Monday.