$73M Port Investments: Quebec

During his visit to Rimouski today, Lawrence Cannon, minister of transport, infrastructure and communities, announced a $7.3 million investment in the ports of Rimouski and Matane. The invested funds will go toward different repairs that will maintain the safety of the facilities and keep the ports in optimal operating condition.

The ports of Rimouski and Matane will receive considerable funding to carry out the preparation of plans and specifications for the dredging project of the Port of Rimouski, scheduled to begin in summer 2009, and the dredging of the Port of Matane, planned for this fall.

The two dredging projects are subject to an environmental assessment under the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act. Details regarding the total value of the work to be carried out will be announced during the public calls for tenders. Specialized firms will be selected during a rigorous process to ensure that the different projects are successfully completed.

The Port of Rimouski is a centre for the regional distribution of petroleum products, for receiving pulpwood and supplying the Lower North Shore with bulk goods. The Port of Matane is the North Shore’s main marine link for road transportation and the shipment of goods.