NR-HQ-00-53E

DHALIWAL MOVES AHEAD WITH $15M IN FEDERAL FUNDING FOR EMERGENCY DREDGING IN THE GREAT LAKES

July 17, 2000

ottawa -- Herb Dhaliwal, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, today announced that the Government of Canada is investing $15 million in an emergency dredging program. This funding will assist marinas most severely affected by low water levels on the Great Lakes and represents the federal portion of this cost-shared program with Great Lakes marina operators.

"I regret that the provincial government has declined our invitation to participate in this important program. I have received a letter dated July 7, 2000 from Mr. John Snobelen, Ontario’s Minister of Natural Resources, which confirms that the provincial government will not contribute financially to this initiative" said Mr. Dhaliwal. " However, I am confident that our respective departments will work together where possible in order to ensure this program helps Great Lakes marina operators continue operating through the season.

"I am pleased to announce this $15 million for emergency dredging assistance for the Great Lakes. The low water situation in these areas is jeopardizing the economic livelihood of marina operators. The federal government will fulfill its commitment and act now to promote stability in this important recreational sector of the economy," added Mr. Dhaliwal. "This funding will make a real difference to those who use the marinas. I would like to thank the local Members of Parliament who brought this serious situation to my attention. I thank them for their commitment to the members of these communities who rely on these marinas for their livelihoods."

Applications for the Great Lakes Water-Level Emergency Response Program will be available by August 1, 2000. Marinas can apply for up to one-third of total eligible costs to a maximum of $100K per marina in federal funding. The program will apply to eligible dredging projects carried out during 2000 and 2001 on a first come, first-served basis.

Fisheries and Oceans Canada officials will hold community meetings during the week of July 24 in Kingston, Essex, Midland, Leamington and Blind River to explain the details of the program to local marina operators. For more details, interested parties may call Mr. George M. Enei, Director, Special Projects, Fish Habitat Management Program at 1-877-885-5505 or visit the department’s Web site at www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca

Backgrounder attached.