Province Commits Funds to Dredge Sydney Harbour

The province will commit up to $15.2 million, or 40 per cent of the projected cost, to dredge Sydney harbour, Deputy Premier Frank Corbett announced today, June 8, on behalf of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal Minister Bill Estabrooks.

That investment will be triggered by a federal commitment to cover the remaining 50 per cent of the dredging costs. Cape Breton Regional Municipality has already committed $2 million to the project.

"It's not often that a project comes along that offers the opportunity to change the economic direction of a region," Mr. Corbett said. "But today, here in Cape Breton, we believe we have that opportunity."

The deputy premier called the dredging project a turning point for Cape Breton.

"This is yet another example of government's genuine leadership and commitment to invest in sustainable initiatives that will create good jobs and grow the economy," he said.

To encourage the federal government's participation in the project, Mr. Corbett will lead a mission to Ottawa to help secure funding.

"The opportunity is upon us to rebuild our economy and bring our friends and family home from jobs in other provinces," Mr. Corbett said. "It is important for all Cape Bretoners to know that the province is doing all it can to seize the opportunities provided by this harbour."