NR-HQ-00-57E

PICKARD ANNOUNCES $970,000 FOR HARBOUR IMPROVEMENTS  AT WHEATLEY AND RONDEAU IN ONTARIO

July 18, 2000

CHATHAM-KENT-ESSEX – Jerry Pickard, Member of Parliament for the constituency of Kent-Essex, announced today on behalf of the Honourable Herb Dhaliwal, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, that the federal government will invest $970,000 in harbour improvements at the federal harbours of Wheatley and Rondeau (Erieau) in Ontario.

Wheatley - The project will consist in dredging the entrance channel. This will provide users with safe access to Ontario’s most important fishing harbour. The planning stages of the project, which include the preparation of the plans and specifications and securing the necessary environmental approvals, have already been initiated. The on-site work is expected to begin by mid summer.

Rondeau (Erieau) - The project will involve the total rehabilitation of the badly deteriorated concrete deck, in addition to minor repairs to the underlying timber cribwork of the pier. The present condition of this structure has been a concern to the community for a number of years and the rehabilitation work will ensure its long-term stability and provide a safe entrance to Rondeau Bay. The preparation of the plans and specifications for the project will be completed shortly. It is expected that construction will begin later this summer for completion in the fall.

"These projects demonstrate the government’s commitment to maintain a system of safe harbour facilities which enable fishermen and communities to make the most of their economic opportunities", said Mr. Pickard. "With the completion of these projects, a safer working environment for the users will be provided."

These projects are being undertaken by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, Small Craft Harbours Program, in collaboration with the Harbour Authorities who manage and operate these facilities for the benefit of local users. It is this close co-operation which enables 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.