NR -10.105 - September 10, 2010
HALIFAX, N.S. – Today, the Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence, announced a regional investment of $361 million at CFB Halifax, including nine defence infrastructure projects, a health information records management system, and a contract award for new sea boots for the Canadian Navy. This Atlantic naval base is home to the largest number of Canadian Forces personnel in the country, which includes approximately 7,000 military and 3,000 civilian personnel.
"Our Government understands that investments in our military directly and positively impact Canadians, our communities and security," said Minister MacKay. "Investments like the ones announced today, and the jobs that will result from them, show that it is a win-win situation when you invest in the Canadian Forces".
In addition to the nine infrastructure projects, announced today is the creation of the Canadian Forces Health Information System (CFHIS) project. This $140 million project is one of the largest health record projects ever to be undertaken in Canada. Sponsored by the Canadian Forces Health Services, the project will enable more than 2,500 Canadian Forces (CF) healthcare and dental professionals and managers across Canada to securely share information and coordinate care for 120,000 patients.
The announcement also included notice that an Atlantic region manufacturer is benefiting from a contract to provide footwear for members of the Canadian Navy through the Naval Improved Clothing and Equipment (NICE) project. The Minister pointed to this investment as a further example of how investing in the Canadian Forces resulted in positive benefits for Canadian communities.
These announcements are in addition to infrastructure investments announced this week at Canadian Forces bases and wings across the country. In total, these investments are anticipated to create 1,700 jobs in Canada. Government of Canada investments in national defence announced in 2010 are anticipated to create 4,700 jobs for our economy.
All contracts related to this investment will be tendered using fair, open and transparent process.
In line with the Canada First Defence Strategy, there is a need to update and replace dated defence infrastructure to meet the challenges of the 21st century. The Government's significant investments in defence infrastructure provide economic benefits to communities across Canada.
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Notes to editor / news director: For further information please see the backgrounder on defence infrastructure at CFB Halifax at http://www.forces.gc.ca/site/news-nouvelles/news-nouvelles-eng.asp?cat=03
