NR-HQ-00-60E

EASTER ANNOUNCES FEDERAL INVESTMENT OF $296,000 FOR HARBOUR IMPROVEMENTS AT FIVE FISHING HARBOURS  IN PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND

July 20, 2000

HUNTER RIVER – Wayne Easter, Member of Parliament for Malpeque, announced today on behalf of the Honourable Herb Dhaliwal, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, that the federal government will invest $296,000 in projects at the New London, Borden, Nine Mile Creek, French River South and Covehead fishing harbours in Prince Edward Island.

At New London, the project consists of repairs to the wharf and slipway as well as upgrades to the electrical system in order to provide fishers with safe and adequate facilities.

At Borden, the concrete wall at the north end of the wharf will be repaired and the fenders on the outside face of the south end will be replaced.

At Nine Mile Creek, dredging will be undertaken in the boat pen and at the entrance of the harbour.

The electrical system at French River South will be repaired and the wharf and slipway will be upgraded.

In Covehead, the electrical system will be upgraded and new fenders and wales will be installed on the wharf.

"Harbours need consistent maintenance for their safe and efficient operation. These projects underline the federal government’s determination to maintain viable and safe harbours in support of Prince Edward Island’s fishing community," said Mr. Easter.

These projects are being undertaken by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, Small Craft Harbours Program, in close collaboration with the Harbour Authorities who manage and operate these facilities for the benefit of local users. It is this close cooperation with clients that enables the federal government to continue to provide an operable system of harbours and facilities throughout Canada in support of commercial fisheries.