Steveston, British Columbia - Communities across Canada are supported by small craft harbours that bolster local economies through tourism, recreation and commercial fishing. Small craft harbours are major economic sectors that help support coastal communities to create good jobs and a strong local economy. Keeping our harbours safe, open and in good repair is essential to our coastal communities remaining competitive. That’s why the Government of Canada is working with municipalities and other stakeholders to renew its network of small craft harbours across the country.
By investing in infrastructure, the Government of Canada is investing in people, promoting inclusive growth, and building stronger and safer communities. With 44,000 Canadians employed in the commercial fishing sector, including more than 5,200 in British Columbia, it is important that we sustain this industry for years to come.
The Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, along with the Member of Parliament for Steveston─Richmond East, Joe Peschisolido, announced that the Government of Canada has invested over $33 million in 35 small craft harbours across British Columbia between 2016 and 2020 to ensure coastal communities can continue to create jobs, and local economies can thrive. This investment is in addition to the ongoing Small Craft Harbour Program operational budget.
We are making significant investments through our Small Craft Harbours Program to work with municipalities to renew the network of small craft harbours, and to repair, maintain and build key harbours across the country. By renewing and maintaining marine infrastructure, we can continue to support our local communities by creating jobs and opportunities that will benefit fish harvesters, their families, and residents and visitors alike, while facilitating growth in the tourism sector.
Minister Wilkinson also highlighted the removal of 10 vessels from small craft harbours in British Columbia as part of the Ocean Protection Plan’s Abandoned and Wrecked Vessels Removal Program, several of which are currently being disposed of in Port Edward and will be completed this month.
Source : Government of Canada