OTTAWA — The Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of Health and Minister of the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency, on behalf of the Honourable Denis Lebel, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, today announced funding that will allow the Baker Lake and Chesterfield Inlet Airports to make important safety improvements.
“Infrastructure investments at regional airports are a key part of our government’s plan to create jobs and generate economic growth,” said Minister Aglukkaq. “I am pleased that this funding will directly and indirectly create jobs for the airports and local suppliers.”
This year, through the Airports Capital Assistance Program (ACAP), the Baker Lake Airport is receiving $2,068,488 to rehabilitate its airfield lighting and electrical systems and the Chesterfield Inlet Airport is receiving $1,454,840 to rehabilitate its airfield lighting and electrical systems.
“Our government is committed to the safety and security of all Canadians,” said Minister Lebel. “We are committed to fund safety-related capital projects at regional airports across the country because these airports are vital gateways for local residents, businesses, trade and tourism. These upgrades will improve safety for air travelers and support the efficient movement of goods – helping to ensure the right conditions for economic growth and long-term prosperity.”
In 2012-2013, the Harper government will invest more than $25.9 million for 35 projects for safety-related improvements at 26 airports across Canada. Improvements include purchasing/replacing heavy airside mobile equipment; installing wildlife fencing; and rehabilitating runway pavements, airfield lighting and electrical systems.
To date, through ACAP, the Government of Canada has invested more than $585.6 million for 715 projects at 173 airports. Over 99 per cent of these projects were airside safety-related projects such as runways, taxiways and visual aids, as well as heavy airside mobile equipment such as fire trucks and snowplows.
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Geneviève Sicard
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Denis Lebel
Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities
Ottawa
613-991-0700
Media Relations
Transport Canada, Ottawa
613-993-0055
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