$1 million improvement project for Cartwright airstrip (Labrador)

Lawrence O'Brien, MP (Labrador), on behalf of Transport Minister David Collenette, together with Percy Barrett, provincial Minister of Works, Services and Transportation, today announced an improvement project to lengthen the airstrip and expand the aircraft parking apron at Cartwright airstrip. The project, worth approximately $1 million, is funded by the Government of Canada under the existing Labrador Coast Airstrips Restoration Program.

"With the completion of the Southern Labrador Coastal Highway, Cartwright airstrip will become a major air access point for the south coast of Labrador," said Mr. O'Brien "These improvements to Cartwright airstrip will provide better infrastructure for future growth in passenger services and commercial activities."

Under a 1982 Labrador Air/Marine Services Agreement, the Government of Canada has an on-going commitment to fund the Labrador Coast Airstrips Restoration Program. The program called for the construction of 14 sites with the federal government retaining responsibility for funding major restoration projects. The airstrips, which are owned and operated by the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, are located in Black Tickle, Charlottetown, Cartwright, Davis Inlet, Fox Harbour, Hopedale, Makkovik, Mary's Harbour, Nain, Paradise River (now abandoned), Port Hope Simpson, Postville, Rigolet and Williams Harbour.

The improvement project includes the extension of the airstrip from 2,500 to 4,000 feet and the expansion of the aircraft apron along with associated work. These improvements to Cartwright airstrip are over and above the projects announced on June 11, 2001, under the Labrador Coast Airstrips Restoration Program. 

"This funding for Cartwright Airstrip reflects the Government of Canada's commitment towards the airstrip facilities in Labrador," said Mr. Collenette. "This project will help ensure that Labrador continues to have a safe and efficient transportation system."

"The residents of our coastal communities rely heavily on air transportation and this project ensures that southern Labrador is equipped with a safe and quality airstrip. It will improve the landing area for our water bombers, allowing us to better protect the forests of Labrador from forest fires," added Mr. Barrett. "I am pleased with the Government of Canada's continued commitment to the Labrador Coast Airstrips Restoration Program." 

Funding for this project was provided for in the February 2000 budget and is therefore built into the existing financial framework.

Media contact: 
Lucille LeBlanc, Communications , Transport Canada, (709) 772-6197 
Lynn Evans, Communications, Works, Services and Transportation, (709) 729-3015.

2001 08 08                                                      4:15 p.m.