Harper Government Invests in Whitby Small Craft Harbour

News Release

MP Pat Perkins announces project to improve east and west piers

WHITBY, Ontario - Pat Perkins, Member of Parliament for Whitby-Oshawa, on behalf of the Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, announced today an investment to upgrade Whitby Harbour in Ontario.

The project involves repairing the wharf and concrete deck as well as the addition of safety ladders and railings on the east and west entrance piers.

Since 2006, the Government of Canada has provided an unprecedented level of funding to support investments in public infrastructure across the country. Last fall, Prime Minister Harper announced an additional investment of $5.8 billion over the next two years to build and renew infrastructure across the country to support Canadian heritage, First Nations education, defence, borders, research, small craft harbours, transportation and search and rescue. As part of this funding, Fisheries and Oceans Canada and the Canadian Coast Guard will receive a total of approximately $551 million. This includes $288 million for harbour improvements at small craft harbours.

Quick Facts

Whitby harbour consists of extensive infrastructure and property, including entrance piers, a marginal wharf system, a launching ramp and floating docks.
The harbour is leased and managed by the Town of Whitby and the Whitby Yacht Club.
The Harper Government will invest in harbour improvement projects at nine small craft harbours in Ontario over the next two years.
The Government of Canada supports more than 1000 small craft harbours across Canada. Harbour improvement projects are undertaken in cooperation with municipalities and local harbour authorities that manage and operate facilities for local users.

Quotes

“The Government is investing $288 million over the next two years in small craft harbour repairs and maintenance. This funding will provide employment opportunities and support services in communities across Canada.”

The Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans

“Since 2006, our Government has continuously made major investments that create opportunities for Canadians and foster prosperity in Ontario. The Whitby Harbour is a key driver of the economy and a tourism hub in the town and region. We are proud to continue to support this municipality and ensure there are adequate facilities for those who use its harbour.”

Pat Perkins, MP for Whitby-Oshawa