Government of Canada supports economic diversification initiatives in Belledune

August 5, 2021 · Belledune, New Brunswick · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)

Belledune is a community that will be impacted by the phase-out of coal as Canada moves to a net-zero carbon emissions future. It is home to the coal-fired Belledune Generating Station and the Port of Belledune, a key transportation asset, which imports coal for the station and  supports a wide range of industrial activity. The region has also been recently impacted by the closure of the Glencore Smelter and the temporary closure of the Trevali mine. 

That is why today, Serge Cormier, Member of Parliament for Acadie-Bathurst, on behalf of the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages and Minister responsible for ACOA, announced investments totalling $7,206,250 in support of five projects in the Belledune region.

The Government of Canada is investing in strategic projects that leverage regional assets to create a healthier environment and new diversified economic opportunities. This will contribute to a strong, sustainable recovery and a greener economy in northern New Brunswick.

The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency is delivering funding to these projects through the the Canada Coal Transition Initiative (CCTI) and Canada Coal Transition Initiative – Infrastructure Fund (CCTI-IF).

Belledune Port Authority                                    Total Project Costs:     $2,270,367

Non-repayable (CCTI)                                               ACOA Assistance:     $1,702,775

The funds support a series of studies to produce a master development plan to allow the Port to prepare for the phase-out of coal, and expand the scope of its services and client-base to achieve a more diversified clientele and greater volumes. This project will assist the Port to sequence future investments and target initiatives in a strategic way, maximizing opportunities and new venture creation.

CBDC Chaleur Inc.                                                  Total Project Costs:     $1,679,975

Non-repayable (CCTI)                                                ACOA Assistance:     $980,044

The funds support a small- and medium-sized enterprise (SME) diversification initiative to assist the Glencore Smelter and Trevali supply chain companies to acquire new skills, identify new fabrication and manufacturing opportunities, tool-up and improve productivity. This project will also help companies strategically plan for the development of new products and diversification into new markets to generate new revenues and sustain or create new jobs.

Quebec Stevedoring Company Ltd                   Total Project Costs:     $3,909,528

Repayable (CCTI-IF)                                                  ACOA Assistance:     $1,954,764

The funds support the construction of a new wood pellet warehouse at Terminal 3 of the Port of Belledune to support the growth of the wood pellet export industry in New Brunswick to meet international demand.

AJN Investment & Development (2008) Ltd  Total Project Costs:     $9,550,000

Repayable (CCTI-IF)                                                 ACOA Assistance:     $2,325,000

The funds support the establishment of a structural insulated panel manufacturing facility at the Belledune Industrial Park targeting the North American industrial, commercial and residential sectors at the Belledune Industrial Park.

Village of Belledune                                                Total Project Costs:     $731,000

Non-repayable (CCTI-IF)                                           ACOA Assistance:      $243,667

The funds support improvements to the municipal industrial park to accommodate new industrial activity, including the planned panel manufacturing facility by AJN Investment. Upgrades include road construction, and installing water and power supply to provide essential utilities for expanded business activities at the park.

Government of Canada supports economic diversification initiatives in Belledune