Archived - Minister Morneau Announces New Investments to Support Ferry Services in Atlantic Canada

April 5, 2016 – Sydney, Nova Scotia – Department of Finance

Finance Minister Bill Morneau today announced new investments to support ferry services in Atlantic Canada during a stop in Sydney, N.S. This announcement comes as part of the new Government’s first budget, Growing the Middle Class.

Minister Morneau highlighted the Budget 2016 investments of up to $3.4 billion over the next five years to maintain and upgrade federal infrastructure assets across the country that provide services to all Canadians.

The Minister noted that Budget 2016 will provide $22 million for investments in Marine Atlantic Inc.’s facilities, including for the installation of a new mooring system for its ferries operating between Channel-Port aux Basques, Newfoundland and Labrador and North Sydney, Nova Scotia.

In addition, Budget 2016 provides support for the continued operation of ferry services in Atlantic Canada, including those between Digby, Nova Scotia and Saint John, New Brunswick, and between Caribou, Nova Scotia and Wood Islands, Prince Edward Island.

To improve the safety, security and efficiency of federal transportation infrastructure assets, Budget 2016 also proposes a number of new investments, such as $148.6 million for small craft harbour infrastructure improvements across Canada. These improvements include major capital construction projects on wharves, floats, breakwaters, and shore protection, to ensure a network of safe and accessible harbours for use by commercial fish harvesters.

Annie Donolo
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Finance
613-369-5696

Jack Aubry
Media Relations
Department of Finance
613-369-4000