The Government of Canada announced it is investing in two key marine transportation projects for the community of the Magdalen Islands:
- The construction of a new slipway to replace the existing one located at the Port of Cap-aux-Meules as part of the fishers’ wharf reconstruction project announced by the Prime Minister in 2022, and
- Financial support from the Government of Canada to the Coopérative de transport maritime et aérien to operate a replacement vessel that will ensure service continuity to the remote community of the Magdalen Islands when the MV Madeleine II undergoes planned maintenance.
“The Government of Canada recognizes the importance of the Port of Cap-aux-Meules for Madelinots and for the economic vitality of the region. By building a new slipway and providing funding to operate the ferry service, we are responding to the community’s concerns and reaffirming our commitment to the Magdalen Islands,” said Anita Anand, Minister of Transport and Internal Trade
The Government of Canada will work closely with the Coopérative de transport maritime et aérien (CTMA), which will own, operate and maintain the new slipway. This commitment will support local fishers and businesses while strengthening marine safety and the economic resilience of the Magdalen Islands.
“The Cap-aux-Meules port represents the heart of the community of the Magdalen Islands, whether in terms of transportation, fishing or tourism. The reconstruction of the slipway is the fruit of hard work and a genuine investment on my part to support the local economy. This project reflects not only our determination to strengthen the Islands’ infrastructure, but also my personal commitment to ensuring a prosperous future for our people and our future generations,” said Diane Lebouthillier, Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard.
From visiting loved ones to shipping goods to market, Canadians and businesses of Atlantic Canada rely on safe and efficient ferry services to keep communities connected and build an economy that works for everyone. The Government of Canada reconfirms its commitment to the region.
“This announcement is another example of our government’s commitment to coastal communities and the workers who depend on them. The construction of a new, modern and safe slipway at the Port of Cap-aux-Meules will not only help support the fishing industry, but also strengthen the local economy and the marine resilience of the Magdalen Islands,” said Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Public Services and Procurement and Quebec Lieutenant.
The Government of Canada will be responsible for the construction of a new slipway to replace the existing one at the Port of Cap-aux-Meules. This project will be incorporated as part of the reconstruction of the fishers’ wharf, for which an investment of nearly $40 million was announced on August 19, 2022.
Featured image: (Government of Canada)