New London, PEI – Residents of New London and Pinette, PEI, will benefit from financial support from the federal government to improve harbour facilities, the Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans announced today.
“I know first hand how important it is to have safe, functional harbours for fish harvesters on Prince Edward Island,” said Minister Shea. “Small craft harbours are essential for the fishing industry. These facilities play a broad role in the economies and vitality of many of our communities. It is through our partnership with local harbour authorities that we are able to provide this support."
A total of $250,000 will be invested this fiscal year at New London and Pinette, PEI. The project at New London involves reconstruction of the end of the main wharf. Work this year includes engineering, design and planning with actual construction commencing early in the spring. When the work is completed, fish harvesters will have improved working conditions at the harbour.
At Pinette, thirty metres of the wharf is supported by timber-piles that have deteriorated. The project involves reconstructing and strengthening the structure by repairing or replacing the deteriorated piles. Work will also include the installation of new pile caps, stringers, timber deck and braces as well as armour rock below the deck to stabilize the retaining wall. This project is expected to be completed in the spring.
These projects are being undertaken under the Small Craft Harbours Program together with the Harbour Authorities of New London and Pinette that manage and operate the facilities for local users. Such close co-operation with clients allows the federal government to continue to provide a safe and 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
Malcom E. Campbell
Communications Manager
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Charlottetown, PEI
902-368-0716
NR-HQ-08-51E
