Government of Canada Invests in Nova Scotia Infrastructure

Nova Scotia municipalities will have access to more than $223 million in infrastructure funding through the federal Gas Tax Fund. The governments of Canada and Nova Scotia today, Dec. 17, signed an agreement to extend the fund from 2010 to 2014.

Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence, made the announcement along with Jamie Muir, Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations.

"I'm pleased to be here today to sign this agreement with Nova Scotia that will provide our province with significant and predictable long-term infrastructure funding," said Mr. MacKay. "Infrastructure projects create jobs for Canadians, which then boost our economy."

Mr. Muir said the agreement is a major investment to help build strong, healthy communities throughout Nova Scotia.

"The extension of the federal gas tax agreement will help ensure better infrastructure for today and in the future," said Mr. Muir. "This sustainable investment will help Nova Scotia communities prepare for future development and prosperity."

"This is a huge victory for municipal, provincial and federal co-operation in Nova Scotia," said Lloyd Hines, president of the Union of Nova Scotia Municipalities. "The value of this revenue-sharing relationship is enhanced by this extension, and the UNSM congratulates the province and the federal government for their continued co-operation."

For more information about federal and provincial gas tax infrastructure initiatives, visit www.buildingcanada.gc.ca, www.infrastructure.gc.ca or www.nsinfrastructure.ca .