VANCOUVER - The Honourable Herb Dhaliwal, Minister of Natural Resources, on behalf of The Honourable Robert G. Thibault, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, today announced $4.7 million for small craft harbour initiatives in British Columbia.

"I am proud to announce $4.7 million in funding for harbour projects in British Columbia. This underlines the Government of Canada's commitment to the province's coastal communities," Minister Thibault said. "These funds are part of a continuing process of collaboration with Harbour Authorities and harbour users to help ensure that harbours are operating and in good repair, and that safety and environmental standards are met."

The $4.7 million is part of the $8.7 million announced last week to enhance safe access and shelter for fishing vessels at small craft harbours in British Columbia, and part of the larger package of $91.9 million allocated for small craft harbours across the country.

Several small craft harbours throughout British Columbia will receive in total $1.9 million for various projects including wharf, dolphin and float repairs, building repairs, environmental and fire safety initiatives as well as the provision of sanitary services. Another $1.0 million will be invested in the areas of Central Coast, South Coast, Lower Fraser River and North Coast to carry out minor works at numerous harbours. Approximately $600,000 will be dedicated to harbour services and management support to local Harbour Authorities in harbour management. The remainder of the funds, $1.2 million, will be used for delivery and implementation of projects.

These funds are in addition to the $1.0 million for breakwater repairs at small craft harbour sites throughout British Columbia and the $250,000 for harbour dredging at Steveston previously announced.

The projects will be carried out under the Fisheries and Oceans' Small Craft Harbours Program in collaboration with those Harbour Authorities that manage and operate facilities for the benefit of local users. This cooperationenables the federal government to continue to provide an operable system of harbours and facilities throughout Canada in support of commercial fishing and resident coastal communities.  

Media contacts:

Susan M. Steele
Regional Director, Small Craft Harbours
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
(604) 666-6530