BRIDGEWATER – Canada’s new government will provide $8 million over the next three years for improvements at three fishing harbours on Cape Sable Island in southern Nova Scotia. Gerald Keddy, Member of Parliament for South Shore -- St. Margaret’s, announced the funding today on behalf of the Honourable Loyola Hearn, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans.

"The commercial fishery of southern Nova Scotia is one of the busiest and most productive in Canada," said Mr. Keddy. "This is a significant federal investment and will do a lot to provide our fishers with the first-rate harbours and facilities they need for success." The work will be completed over the next three years.

Cape Sable Island is an essential part of the fishery of southern Nova Scotia. Major capital projects will be carried out in Clark’s Harbour, Newellton, and West Head. The projects will improve safety and services as well as increase capacity and ability to serve larger vessels. This $8 million brings the total investment by Canada’s New Government to $16.3 million for small craft harbours in Nova Scotia.

"Our government understands that harbour infrastructure is a critical element in successful fisheries," said Mr. Keddy. "The projects we are doing on Cape Sable Island will lessen congestion and allow safer accommodation of vessels."

These projects are being carried out under Fisheries and Oceans Canada’s Small Craft Harbours Program in collaboration with harbour authorities that manage and operate facilities for the benefit of local users. This cooperation enables the federal government to continue to provide an operable system of harbours and facilities throughout Canada in support of commercial fishers and coastal communities.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Communications Branch
Fisheries and Oceans Canada,
Maritimes Region
(902) 426-3350
CommEnquire@mar.dfo-mpo.gc.ca