June 24, 2014 - Cape St. Mary, Nova Scotia
The Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, today announced with Greg Kerr, Member of Parliament for West Nova, that the Government of Canada is undertaking emergency dredging at Cape St. Mary.
A hydrographic survey carried out in the spring of 2014 showed that major dredging of the harbour, particularly at the channel entrance, is required to ensure the safety of the harbour for all users.
In the last six years, over $1 million has been invested at this harbour for basin and channel dredging, wharf repairs and preparations for a major capital construction project which will include a new breakwater and groyne extension, to be announced at a later date.
Additional Nova Scotia harbour projects will be announced at a later date.
“Small craft harbours are critical for the Canadian fishing industry, and an important part of our culture and economy. This investment at Cape St. Mary demonstrates our Government’s commitment to supporting a network of safe and efficient harbours for commercial fisheries and communities across Canada.”
The Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans
"Harbours need consistent maintenance to continue operating safely and efficiently. Dredging will provide users, particularly those with larger vessels, access to the harbour and increase marine safety by maintaining the charted depths of the channels.”
Mr. Greg Kerr, Member of Parliament for West Nova
Photo caption: On June 24, 2014, the Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans announced significant funding for Cape St. Mary and Saulnierville Harbours. (L-R) Bobby Deveau, President of Cape St. Mary Harbour Authority; Greg Kerr, MP for West Nova; Minister Shea; and Pierre Comeau, Chairman of the local harbours’ steering committee.
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Frank Stanek
Media Relations
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Ottawa
613-990-7537
Sophie Doucet
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
613-992-3474
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