Channel-Port aux Basques Modernizes Industrial Facility to Attract New Business

With an investment of close to $250,000 from the Provincial Government, the Town of Channel-Port aux Basques is modernizing its recently acquired waterfront industrial facilities to increase its ability to attract new business to the region.

�Quality infrastructure is an important component of attracting new enterprises to a given community and region,� said the Honourable Shawn Skinner, Minister of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development. �This initiative capitalizes on the growing interest in mineral and petroleum exploration on the province�s west coast. It will also help position Channel-Port aux Basques and the surrounding region as an attractive location for potential business development.�

Formerly the SeaFreez fish processing facility, the site includes two buildings totaling 41,000 square feet of storage and 440 feet of docking space. Estimated to be completed by June 2010, renovations include structural upgrades and general modifications that will increase the facility�s versatility.

�This project not only gives us the ability to provide employment and boost our economy in the short term, it will give us the opportunity to market ourselves on a global scale for the long-term,� said Brian Button, Mayor, Town of Channel-Port aux Basques. �The large facility with docking and waterfront property provided through this initiative are tools that will help stimulate the economy for the long-term future of the community.�

The Town of Channel-Port aux Basques identified the importance of harbourfront development in its strategic development process. With an ice-free harbour, it is strategically positioned for the development of marine-based businesses, particularly those in transportation sectors such as dry bulk transshipment, short sea shipping, and cruising.

�I am confident the Provincial Government�s investment in this infrastructure development project will lead to the creation of highly-skilled industrial trade jobs and long-term sustainable business activity in the region,� said Minister Skinner. �The project is in keeping with our mandate for supporting an increasingly innovative and diverse business community in all regions of the province.�

This initiative was funded through the Regional/Sectoral Diversification Fund (RSDF), which through Budget 2009: Building on Our Strong Foundation was increased to an $8 million fund. Administered by the Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development, the RSDF provides non-repayable contributions to economic development agencies for initiatives that address regional and sectoral development and diversification.

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2009 11 25                                                    9:55 a.m.