GIMLI, MB, August 6, 2021 / CNW / – Fisheries and Oceans Canada

Coastal communities across Canada are supported by small craft harbors that provide the commercial fishing industry with safe access to waterways. With approximately 45,000 Canadians employed in the fishing industry, the Government of Canada is making investments to renew its network of small craft harbors and working with municipalities and other stakeholders to ensure that this important infrastructure can improve local communities.

Today, the Honorable Bernadette Jordan, Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, with Terry Duguid, Member of Parliament for Winnipeg South, announced that the Government of Canada invest more than $ 3.5 million to help renew the port infrastructure throughout Manitoba and the rest of the Prairies.

A number of Manitoba ports have been identified for improvements, including in Gimli, which is the home port for 66 fishing boats and just over 210 pleasure craft. The launch pads will be rebuilt at by Calder Wharf and Gull Harbor on Lake Winnipeg, Mossey River, Whitefish Point on Lake Winnipegosis, Whiskey Jack Portage on Kiskittogisu Lake.

Improvements to the wharf are planned for Fourré Portage on Lake Wintering, as well as at the small craft harbor of Missinipe, Saskatchewan on Otter lake.

In Alberta technical surveys are planned in the small craft harbors of Canyon Creek and Hardist.

Quote

“Small craft harbors are vital to so many fisheries and entire communities across Canada, including the Prairies. By investing $ 300 million to build greener, safer and more efficient ports from coast to coast, we invest in the people who live in these communities and depend on these ports every day.

The Honorable Bernadette Jordan, Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard

“On behalf of the government of Canada, I am pleased to announce this important investment for the Prairies. Fishing is a vital cornerstone in many communities across Canada – this is why it is important to support our local fishermen and the whole community with good, well-maintained local port infrastructure. When we invest in our local ports, we are investing in the people who work and live near them, and I am proud to be part of such an important initiative. “

Terry Duguid, MP for Winnipeg South and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages ​​(Western Economic Diversification Canada) and to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change (Canadian Water Agency).

“It may be surprising to people outside of the Prairies to learn that there is a strong fishery here. Water and fishing are a way of life. Gimli is the largest port between Ontario and BC At the heart of from Manitoba Interlake region Gimli port has received many improvements over the past few years and it’s great to see these latest investments, not just for Gimli but for several ports across the Prairies.

The Honorable Jim Carr, Member of Parliament for Winnipeg South Center and Special Representative for the Prairies

“Investing in local small craft harbors not only helps the commercial fishing industry, but the region as a whole. I am proud that we are investing in people, promoting inclusive growth and building stronger communities. The work carried out will renew and maintain the essential infrastructure in the region and support our local communities. ”

The Honorable Dan Vandal, Member of Parliament for St. Boniface – St. Vital and Minister of Northern Affairs

Fast facts

• In the 2021-2022 budget, the government of Canada committed a supplement $ 300 million to invest over two years for the renewal of from Canada network of small craft harbors.
• Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) keeps harbors critical to the commercial fishing industry open and in good repair.
• DFO supports 973 ports across Canada with more than 5,000 volunteers from port authorities.
• Port restoration projects are undertaken in cooperation with local port authorities who manage and operate the facilities for local users.
• from Canada the blue economy and its future growth depend on the sustainable use and management of our ocean resources. A blue economy strategy will allow us to protect and revitalize the health of our oceans while taking advantage of emerging economic growth opportunities across all ocean sectors.

Related links
Government of Canada invests in the improvement of fishing ports through Canada

For more information on Fisheries and Oceans Canada’s Small Craft Harbors Program: https://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/sch-ppb/index-eng.html

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SOURCE Fisheries and Oceans Canada Ontario and Prairies Region