As Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, I understand the importance of small craft harbours to communities in Quebec and across the entire country. Our government is working to get things done for the future of our coastal communities. Although some have recently called our commitment into question, the results we have achieved since February 2006 demonstrate our commitment to Canadians living in our coastal communities.
Since coming to office, permanent annual funding for the Small Craft Harbours program has been increased by $20 million. In our February 2008 Budget, we made a further commitment to the program of $10 million over two years. This funding is for repairs and environmental cleanup at recreational and non-core fishing harbours to permit the transfer of these harbours to interested parties. Over time, divesting these harbours will allow a larger share of funding to be directed towards core fishing harbours.
Fisheries, oceans, fish habitat and marine security issues all have their greatest impact on coastal communities. To ensure the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) can do the work these communities count on them to do, the department's permanent annual budget was increased by $99 million. This funding strengthens the department's ability to make informed decisions on fisheries management and resource conservation practices.
Last year, we invested more than $61 million over five years to support DFO's valuable work to improve the health of Canada's oceans.
We have given the Coast Guard a strong vote of confidence, with more than $1.5 billion invested in a new icebreaker, new patrol vessels, offshore science vessels and maritime security vessels, as well as for maintenance, fuel, and other operational costs.
In 2006, we provided tax relief for fish harvesters by allowing a lifetime capital gains exemption to offset the sale of licenses or other fishing property, and allowing them to defer tax when they transfer fishing property to their children or grandchildren.
All of these measures show our Government's commitment to ensuring the health and prosperity of coastal communities. Our investments in small craft harbours all over Canada is a key element, but just one part of a bigger story.
When people look at the whole picture, our commitment to coastal communities in Quebec and across Canada is clear.
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For more Information:
Phil Jenkins
Media Relations
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Ottawa
613-990-7537
Joshua Zanin
Special Assistant, Communications
Office of the Minister
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Ottawa
613-992-3474
