L'Anse-au-Loup, Labrador -- Fish harvesters in the Labrador Straits will have access to safer, more modern harbour facilities thanks to federal investments announced today by the Honourable Loyola Hearn, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans.
"The fishery on the north shore of the Strait of Belle Isle is thriving due to the cooperative efforts of harvesters and processors," said Minister Hearn. "Our government wants to support that entrepreneurial spirit by providing the harbour infrastructure fish harvesters need to work safely and efficiently."
The fish harvesters at L'Anse-au-Loup require a safe service area to work on their gear. A project to improve the multi-use service capacity of the harbour will take place this year. This work will entail reinforcing the seaward face with armourstone, grading the area and finishing with asphalt.
This project will be implemented by Fisheries and Oceans Canada, as part of its Small Craft Harbours Program, in cooperation with the local harbour authority that manages and operates the facility for the benefit of the local users. This close cooperation with clients allows the federal government to continue to provide an operable system of harbours and facilities throughout Canada in support of commercial fish harvesters.
The Government of Canada understands the importance of small craft harbours to communities across the country. Since February 2006, the permanent annual funding for the Small Craft Harbours program has been increased by $20 million, with a further $10 million commitment made in Budget 2008 over two years for repairs and environmental cleanup at recreational and non-core fishing harbours to permit the transfer of these harbours to interested parties.
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FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Susan Keough
Communications Officer
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador
(709) 772-7628
