Innovation, Business and Rural Development
March 11, 2014

Energizing the Economy Through Investments in Tourism Infrastructure

Over $177,000 to Support Upgrades to Harbour Amenities in Fortune

The Provincial Government is providing funding totalling $177,726 to Fortune’s Harbour Authority in order for the authority to complete construction on a new ferry terminal extension that will accommodate passengers travelling to and from St. Pierre and Miquelon. The announcement was made today at the Fortune Border Services Terminal by the Honourable Darin King, Minister of Justice and MHA for Grand Bank, on behalf of the Honourable Terry French, Minister of Innovation, Business and Rural Development.

“Newfoundland and Labrador has long celebrated our close connections with St. Pierre and Miquelon. I am pleased that this $177,726 in funding will provide a secure, sheltered, and comfortable terminal where travellers can learn about community events, activities and available amenities. I am hopeful this will lead to increased tourism activity in the area, creating the opportunity for growth in the regional economy and an all-round-better experience for the traveller.”
- The Honourable Terry French, Minister of Innovation, Business and Rural Development

There are currently no facilities for individuals travelling on the St. Pierre and Miquelon ferry, requiring travellers to wait outside with limited access to washrooms, nowhere to stow luggage, and leaving them open to inclement weather. Once complete, expanded amenities at the Harbour Authority will immediately and vastly improve the experience of those travelling to and from St. Pierre and Miquelon. The terminal extension is scheduled to be complete early summer 2014.

“This is great news for Fortune and the Burin Peninsula as we continue to work together in developing a tourism industry in this region. Today's announcement to construct a ferry terminal extension in Fortune will enhance the experience for travellers and visitors.”
- The Honourable Darin King, Minister of Justice and MHA for Grand Bank.

In April of 2012, the Fortune Port Corporation was created as a result of Transport Canada’s divesting their marine infrastructure. One of the assets acquired was the building which houses the Canada Border Services Agency. As a part of Fortune’s Harbour Authority, and once the terminal extension is complete, future plans will include using the space for events and activities that will promote the region and provide community information.

“The Fortune Harbour Authority is grateful for the Department of Innovation, Business and Rural Development’s commitment of $177,726. We see thousands of passengers travelling through Fortune every year and we want them to have the best experience possible. This investment will allow us to provide a modern terminal where travellers will have proper shelter, access to amenities and be provided with up-to-date information about out area, greatly adding to their experience.”
- Earl Rose, President, Fortune Harbor Authority

Through sound fiscal management and responsible decisions, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is strengthening the business environment, encouraging the development of innovative industries and building a vibrant economy.

QUICK FACTS

• Funding totalling $177,726 is being provided to Fortune’s Harbour Authority in order for the authority to complete a new ferry terminal extension for passengers travelling to and from St. Pierre and Miquelon.
• More than 12,000 passengers travel between Newfoundland and Labrador and St. Pierre and Miquelon annually.
• During the 2013 peak season (May to September), passenger traffic carried on the Fortune ferry reached 9,497 passengers.
• Officials from the Fortune Port Corporation implemented a $7 User and Security Tax on each passenger entering and exiting beginning in 2013. The purpose of this tax is to cover the costs of any repairs, maintenance and or upgrades associated with the operations of the ferry.

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2014 03 11                                        4:55 p.m.