No. Q 003/08
For release - August 20, 2008
RIMOUSKI (Quebec) - During his visit to Rimouski today, the Honourable Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, announced an investment in the order of $7.3 million in the ports of Rimouski and Matane. The invested funds will go toward different repairs that will maintain the safety of the facilities and keep the ports in optimal operating condition.
"This announcement confirms our government's commitment to investing in the maintenance of regional federal infrastructures," said Minister Cannon. "In addition to meeting the needs of the two communities, these projects will help support Rimouski and Matane's economic development."
The ports of Rimouski and Matane will receive considerable funding to carry out the following:
- The preparation of plans and specifications for the dredging project of the Port of Rimouski, scheduled for 2009
- The dredging of the Port of Matane, planned for this fall.
During his summer tour of the area last year, Minister Cannon announced that the sediment at the Port of Rimouski would be sampled in preparation for dredging. This step having been completed, the plans and specifications for the project can now be prepared. Dredging is expected to begin in summer 2009.
Minister Cannon had also announced last year that the breakwater at the Port of Matane, an important infrastructure protecting the port's activities and facilities, would be rebuilt. Dredging work will be carried out at the Port of Matane this fall to reach a depth of 8.0 meters in the harbour and 8.2 meters in the berths.
"Through these investments, the government of Canada maintains its commitment to local communities by ensuring that they have safe and efficient port facilities at their disposal," added Minister Cannon.
The two dredging projects are subject to an environmental assessment under the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act. Furthermore, all necessary measures will be taken to avoid disrupting regular activities at the two ports during the work.
Details regarding the total value of the work to be carried out will be announced during the public calls for tenders. Specialized firms will be selected during a rigorous process to ensure that the different projects are successfully completed.
The Port of Rimouski is first and foremost a centre for the regional distribution of petroleum products, for receiving pulpwood and supplying the Lower North Shore with bulk goods. The Port of Matane is the North Shore's main marine link for road transportation and the shipment of goods.
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