Winnipeg, Manitoba - The Honourable Lawrence Cannon,
Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, and the Honourable
Gary Doer, Premier of Manitoba, together with the Honourable Vic Toews,
President of the Treasury Board, and the Honourable Ron Lemieux, Manitoba
Minister of Infrastructure and Transportation have announced that Canada's
New Government and the Province of Manitoba will make matching
contributions of up to $170.5 million to the Red River Floodway Expansion
project.
"Our Government's investment in the Red River Floodway expansion
recognizes that putting the right infrastructure in place will save lives
and property in Winnipeg and the surrounding area," stated Minister
Cannon. "By funding this high-priority project, Canada's New Government is
respecting its commitment to Manitobans made by the Prime Minister only
months ago."
"I want to thank the federal government for its commitment here today
and in keeping with our equal partnership, I am pleased to announce
another $170.5 million from the province," said Premier Doer. "It is
fitting that on the tenth anniversary of the 1997 Flood of the Century, we
now have the full funding needed to complete the floodway expansion, which
is currently underway and will provide significantly better protection for
the capital region. We are proud to build on Duff Roblin's vision."
"The Red River Floodway expansion is crucial to the safety and security
of Manitobans" said Minister Toews. "With the devastation of the 1997
flood still fresh in mind, there is no denying the necessity for increased
flood protection. This partnership investment ensures that the Floodway
provides that level of protection."
Canada's New Government has fully delivered on its commitment to
complete the expansion of the Red River Floodway. This funding will allow
the project to proceed without delays and avoid any resulting cost
increases. The governments of Canada and Manitoba are cost sharing the
$665 million expansion 50-50. This project will improve flood
protection for the residents of Winnipeg, West St. Paul, and East St.
Paul. The two governments had previously announced joint contributions
totalling $324 million toward this project.
"This is a historic day for Manitoba," said Minister Lemieux. "The
province and the federal government have been working hard to upgrade
Manitoba's flood works, both for Winnipeg and also for surrounding
communities. We know how devastating a flood can be and today's
announcement means Manitobans will be better protected in the future."
The Government of Canada's contribution comes from the Canada Strategic
Infrastructure Fund, which supports large-scale projects of major national
and regional significance, in areas that are vital to sustaining economic
growth and supporting an enhanced quality of life for Canadians.
