Minister makes capital works announcement

Jack Byrne, Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs, announced today that the tenders for municipal capital works projects will exceed $100 million in 2004.

"Work on about 260 capital works projects across Newfoundland and Labrador should be underway throughout 2004, at a total cost of approximately $100 million," said Minister Byrne. "These projects will also provide residents of our province with important employment. This should create up to 60,000 person-weeks of direct and indirect employment which will, in turn, help strengthen the economy of Newfoundland and Labrador."

Projects are funded under the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Infrastructure Program, the Municipal Capital Works Program, the Multi-Year Capital Works Program as well as the Labrador Inuit Communities Agreement. The Provincial Government will contribute approximately $52 million toward completion of these projects. Municipal governments will contribute about $38 million, with the balance of $10 million to be funded by the Federal Government.

The break-down is as follows:

Multi-Year Capital Works Program - About 65 projects will be cost-shared 50/50 basis between the province and municipalities at an expenditure of $58 million.

Municipal Capital Works Program - An expenditure of $11 million will fund about 100 projects.

Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Infrastructure Program - A $29 million expenditure is anticipated, cost-shared by provincial, federal and municipal governments for approximately 96 projects. The province will cover about 51 per cent of project costs, with a 33 per cent contribution from the federal government and the balance from municipalities.

"These cost-sharing programs help our municipalities afford much needed projects which will improve the quality of life for their residents," said Minister Byrne. "These projects include water treatment, water and sewer services, waste management, paving, improvements to municipal buildings, fire fighting equipment and recreation. Having reliable infrastructure is key to ensuring our municipalities are vibrant and strong."

In addition, the province remains committed to the St. John�s Harbour Clean-up. The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has committed one third of the $93 million for the project. The remainder of the funding will be cost-shared between the Federal Government and the City of St. John�s, the City of Mount Pearl and the Town of Paradise.

Media contact: Vanessa Colman-Sadd, Communications, (709) 729-1983

2004 05 14                                       12:35 p.m.