February 10, 2010
BERENS RIVER, MANITOBA - James Bezan, Member of Parliament for Selkirk-Interlake, announced today on behalf of the Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, that the federal government will provide $200,000 in funding to repair and extend the wharf at the harbour in Berens River.
“Our Government understands that safe, efficient harbours are essential for fishers and benefit fishing communities across the country,” said James Bezan. “By funding harbour repairs and improvements, we are creating jobs and investing in the future of the fishing industry here in Berens River.”
The timber crib wharf is in need of repair and an extension to adequately serve the local fishing industry. This project involves repairs to the existing offloading wharf as well as the addition of two timber cribs and spans to extend the structure. The project is being tendered and construction is scheduled to be completed by March 2010.
Today’s funding announcement is in addition to the $2.5 million already provided under Canada’s Economic Action Plan for small craft harbours in Manitoba and $400,000 in regular program funding already allocated to the province.
This repair and improvement project is being undertaken by Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), as part of its Small Craft Harbours Program, in cooperation with the local Berens River Harbour Authority that manages and operates the facility for local users. Close cooperation between DFO and harbour authorities allows the federal government to continue to provide an operable system of harbours and facilities throughout Canada in support of commercial fish harvesters.
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For more information:
Carol Launderville
Communications Officer
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Central and Arctic Region
519-383-1804
carol.launderville@dfo-mpo.gc.ca
NR-CA-10-02E
