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NLIS 3 June 5, 2002 (Youth Services and Post-Secondary Education) Town of Port Hope Simpson receives support for harbour facilities study Lawrence O�Brien, MP for Labrador, on behalf of the Government of Canada, along with Yvonne Jones, MHA for Cartwright-L'anse aux Clair, on behalf of Sandra Kelly, Minister of Youth Services and Post-Secondary Education announced today that both the federal and provincial governments will provide $19,000 in funding to enable the Town of Port Hope Simpson to engage a consultant to evaluate its existing harbour facilities. The consultant will make recommendations on improving the transportation needs of the forestry and marine-related industries with economic development potential. "Adequate transportation facilities and infrastructure are key to the development of the forest industry in this region," noted Mr. O�Brien. "With developments such as the Trans-Labrador Highway moving forward, there will be an increased demand on the harbour facilities in Port Hope Simpson in the future. This study is an important step in examining and addressing the infrastructure improvements necessary for the forestry and other industries to reach their maximum potential." The study will examine additional landing and tie-up space, a suitable road system, increased freight and boat storage space, increased parking area for trucks, and available water depth and accessibility. The project began on May 1, 2002, and is expected to be completed by November 30, 2002. Cartwright - L'Anse au Clair MHA, Yvonne Jones, said that the district is growing and expanding its economic base. "We have to evaluate existing infrastructure throughout the district and improve upon it wherever necessary. The community of Port Hope Simpson has tremendous potential in the development of its forest sector, both in saw milling and exporting of product. I am pleased that the community is planning for the future and I am pleased that government is supporting their efforts." According to provincial estimates, at a projected total harvest level of 40,000 cubic metres, pulpwood harvested by commercial operators in the Port Hope Simpson area could reach an annual value of $1.2 million. The same harvest level would yield approximately $1.7 million in lumber values. Approximately 20-30 people in the community are currently employed in the forest industry. Under the Canada - Newfoundland and Labrador Labour Market Development Agreement (LMDA), HRDC and the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador will provide $9,500 through its Local Labour Market Partnerships (LLMPs). LLMPs support community partnerships that develop practical strategies to improve a community�s human resource requirements, thereby enhancing the potential for economic success. This program is one of the Employment Benefits and Support Measures (EBSMs) offered under the (LMDA). The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency is contributing $9,500 to the project through its Business Development Program. Non-commercial investments through this program support the promotion of entrepreneurship, trade, marketing and education through industry, community, youth and business associations. Media contact:
2002 06 05 3:50 p.m. |
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