Harper Government Invests in British Columbia Harbours

News Release

Minister John Duncan Announces $2.5 Million to Maintain and Improve Three Small Craft Harbours in British Columbia In 2014-2015

August 8, 2014 - Sidney, British Columbia

The Honourable John Duncan, Minister of State and Member of Parliament for Vancouver Island North, on behalf of the Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, today announced an investment of $2.5 million to support improvement projects at three small craft harbours in British Columbia.

Major projects being funded include:

Construction and installation of a steel catamaran breakwater this year at Kitamaat, to be followed next year with replacement of the gangway; reconstruction of float lines; and upgrades to the electrical system.
Reconstruction of the wharf substructure that supports a net storage building at Port Edward; and
Reconstruction of the wharf substructure including replacement of piles, caps, stringers and bracing at Tsehum.

These projects are part of the Government of Canada’s investment of approximately $106 million in repair, construction, maintenance and dredging projects across Canada. This includes $66 million in regular, annual funding and an additional $40 million over two years, as announced in Economic Action Plan 2014.

Other projects in British Columbia will be announced at a later date.

Quick Facts

Fisheries and Oceans Canada undertakes harbour improvement projects in cooperation with the local harbour authorities that manage and operate facilities for local users.
In only a month, these harbours serve over 150 commercial fishing vessels.
The Small Craft Harbours Program is responsible for over 1000 small craft harbours across Canada.
Small craft harbours support nearly 90% of all commercial fish landings in Canada. In 2012, the landed value of British Columbia’s commercial fisheries was over $213 million.

Quotes

“This Government understands that by investing in infrastructure at our small craft harbours we are also creating employment opportunities that benefit local communities and ensuring the livelihood of our fishing industry. The funding announced today will help ensure that harbours can continue to support commercial fisheries, harbour users and the local community into the future.This investment demonstrates the Government’s commitment to providing safe and functional harbours.”

The Honourable John Duncan, Minister of State and Member of Parliament for Vancouver Island North