No. PNR003/03For release - June 24, 2003
WINNIPEG, Man. — The Honourable Dr. Rey Pagtakhan, Regional Minister for Manitoba, on behalf of Transport Minister David Collenette, today announced federal funding of $3,605,614 for safety improvement projects at three Manitoba airports under the Government of Canada's Airports Capital Assistance Program.
"With today's contribution towards these northern airports, the Government of Canada is helping to secure Manitoba's northern transportation infrastructure," said Minister Pagtakhan. "The safety and efficiency of these upgraded airports will enable our province to continue regular and increased north-south traffic."
The projects involve installation of Precision Approach Path Indicator Systems at Norway House Airport ($211,094) and at Oxford House Airport ($218,563); and airside pavement rehabilitation, installation of Precision Approach Path Indicator System, electrical and lighting upgrades at Swan River Airport ($3,175,957). These improvements will help to ensure that these Manitoba airports remain safe and efficient facilities. Approximately 37 jobs will be created over the course of these projects.
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 $25,540,171 for safety improvement projects, under ACAP, at 29 airports in Manitoba.
"ACAP is an example of the Government of Canada directing infrastructure resources to where they are most needed and can best enhance safety," said Mr. 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."
Norway House Airport and Oxford House Airport are owned and operated by the Province of Manitoba, Department of Highways and Government Services. Swan River Airport is owned by the Town of Swan River. Swan River Airport provides scheduled passenger service, while Norway House and Oxford House Airports provide reliable year round means of transportation for these communities and are vital lifelines for medical services.
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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