August 5, 2011
Winnipeg, Manitoba – James Bezan, Member of Parliament for Selkirk-Interlake, on behalf of the Honourable Keith Ashfield, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, announced today that the Government of Canada will invest in the repair and maintenance of small craft harbours in Manitoba.
“Our Government recognizes that fishing harbours are very important to the communities that they serve,” said Mr. Bezan. “We are committed to keeping harbours open and in safe condition for the fish harvesters and communities that rely on them.”
The funding being provided in 2011-12 will allow major wharf reconstruction work to be carried out at McBeth Point, and wharf construction to be undertaken at Poplar River as well as minor reconstruction projects and harbour dredging in the province.
This investment is in addition to funding announced in March 2011, to support fish harvesters in storm-damaged areas in Manitoba, Atlantic Canada, and Quebec.
“Today’s investment will help ensure the safety of all harbour users and provide the improved harbour facilities needed to support our thriving fishing industry,” said Mr. Bezan.
Fisheries and Oceans Canada undertakes these projects in cooperation with the local harbour authorities that manage and operate facilities for local users. Close cooperation between the Department and harbour authorities allows the federal government to continue to provide an operable system of harbours and facilities throughout Canada in support of the commercial fishing industry.
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For Broadcast:
The Government of Canada will invest $1.4 million to repair and maintain small craft harbours in Manitoba this year. This is part of a total of $57 million for small craft harbours across the country, and in addition to the $71.6 million committed by the Government last March, to clean up storm-damaged fishing harbours in Manitoba, Quebec and Atlantic Canada.
Background information:
Investments in Small Craft Harbours in Manitoba
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Hilary Prince
Communications
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
905-336-4974
Barbara Mottram
Press Secretary
Office of The Honourable Keith Ashfield
Minister of Fisheries and Oceans Canada
613-992-3474
NR-C&A–11-14E
