No. PNR002/03For release - May 6, 2003
PRINCE ALBERT, Sask. — Ralph Goodale, Minister of Public Works and Government Services, Minister Responsible for the Canadian Wheat Board and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians, on behalf of Transport Minister David Collenette, today announced federal funding of $2,185,800 for safety improvement projects at the Prince Albert Airport under the Government of Canada's Airports Capital Assistance Program.
"Safety and security are Transport Canada's top priorities," said Minister Goodale. "With today's contribution towards the Prince Albert Airport, the Government of Canada is helping to enhance not only safety, but also the economic potential of Canada's transportation infrastructure."
In Prince Albert, the project involves the reconfiguration and rehabilitation of airside surfaces, including the reconfiguration and expansion of the airport's apron and the rehabilitation of Taxiways A, C, D and a portion of B. The project is expected to create approximately 31 jobs. These improvements will help to ensure that the Prince Albert Airport remains a safe and efficient facility.
The Airports Capital Assistance Program (ACAP) is part of the National Airports Policy, which was announced in July 1994. Under ACAP, which officially began April 1, 1995 and was renewed in June 2000, airports may apply for funding towards capital projects related to safety, asset protection and operating cost reduction. To be eligible, they must receive regularly scheduled passenger service, meet airport certification requirements and not be owned by the Government of Canada.
Since 1995, the Government of Canada has announced a total of $21,139,121 for safety improvement projects, under ACAP, at seven airports in Saskatchewan.
"ACAP is an example of the Government of Canada directing infrastructure resources to where they are most needed and can best enhance safety," said Minister Collenette. "This program is just one way the government - through the National Airports Policy - seeks to ensure a safe, efficient and affordable airports system to serve Canadians well into the future."
Prince Albert Airport is owned and operated by the City of Prince Albert. Regularly scheduled passenger service is provided at the airport.
Funding for the initiative was provided for in the February 2003 federal budget.
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Contact:
Susan McLennanCommunications, Winnipeg(204) 983-6315
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