No. PNR002/10
For release - February 24, 2010
RANKIN INLET, NUNAVUT — The Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of Health and Regional Minister for Yukon, the Northwest Territories and Nunavut, today highlighted the completion of important infrastructure upgrades that will improve airside surfaces for Rankin Inlet. The Government of Canada has invested more than $7.6 million in the rehabilitation project.
"The Government of Canada is committed to ensuring that northern communities have modern and sustainable infrastructure — ultimately leading to long-term economic and social stability," said Minister Aglukkaq. "Our government's investment will allow Rankin Inlet Airport to continue to fulfil its role as an essential transportation link for the North, and to deliver high-quality safety standards for all those who travel to and from Rankin Inlet."
"Airports are the lifeline for Nunavut, connecting our communities to each other and to the rest of Canada," commented Peter Taptuna, Minister of Economic Development and Transportation for the Government of Nunavut. "Safety at our airports is of course a key priority of the Government of Nunavut. This project will enhance safety at one of Nunavut's busiest airports."
Funding for this construction project is part of the Government of Canada's Airports Capital Assistance Program (ACAP), which allocates funds for capital projects related to safety, asset protection and operating cost reduction.
Through ACAP, the Government of Canada is improving airport safety, as well as helping the economic viability of this important aspect of Canada's transportation infrastructure. ACAP is an example of the Government of Canada directing infrastructure resources to where they are most needed and can best enhance safety.
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James Kusie
Director of Issues Management and Parliamentary Affairs
Office of Canada’s Transport Minister
John Baird, Ottawa
613-991-0700
Transport Canada
Communications Prairie and Northern Region
204-983-6315
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