FEDERAL FUNDING OF WHARF REPAIRS SUPPORTS THE LOCAL FISHING INDUSTRY

January 15, 2009

 

FALLS POINT, NS (January 15, 2009) – Residents of West Dover near Halifax and Lower Woods Harbour in south western Nova Scotia will see their wharves repaired as a result of an investment by the federal government, Gerald Keddy, M.P. for South Shore – St. Margaret’s announced today on behalf of the Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans. 

“Our government is committed to a well-functioning system of small craft harbours across the country because of the important role they play in supporting the fishing industry,” said Keddy.  “By investing in Canada’s core fishing harbours, we are helping those in coastal communities earn a living.”

A total of $777,000 is being provided for the projects. They are being undertaken under the Small Craft Harbours Program together with the Harbour Authorities of East and West Dover and of Lower Woods Harbour that manage and operate the facilities for local users. Such close co-operation with clients allows the federal government to continue to provide a safe and operable system of harbours and facilities throughout Canada, in support of commercial fish harvesters.
The Government of Canada understands the importance of small craft harbours to communities across the country. Since February 2006, the permanent annual funding for the Small Craft Harbours Program has been increased by $20 million, with a further $10 million commitment made in Budget 2008 over two years for repairs and environmental cleanup at recreational and non-core fishing harbours to permit the transfer of these harbours to interested parties.