The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Steve Kent, Minister of Municipal and Intergovernmental Affairs:

Provincial Government Committed to Infrastructure Renewal

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to rise today in this Honourable House to speak about the important work we are doing to improve municipal infrastructure across Newfoundland and Labrador.

The Department of Municipal and Intergovernmental Affairs has made tremendous investments in the last few years to improve infrastructure in our communities. Since 2008, we have invested over $650 million in municipal capital works projects which has resulted in improved municipal infrastructure across the province. When federal and municipal contributions are included the total investment is in excess of $1 billion.

Mr. Speaker, since April 1 of this year the department has approved over 112 new municipal infrastructure projects under its Municipal Capital Works and Multi-Year Capital Works Programs with a provincial contribution of approximately $31.3 million. Including all projects at various stages of development, there are currently more than 500 projects underway.

These projects will provide our municipalities with the opportunity to secure, develop and improve infrastructure for residents and support the long-term sustainability of growth and development of communities throughout the province. We recognize there is an increased demand for infrastructure and we have been making progress in addressing infrastructure needs through our municipal capital works program.

Mr. Speaker, Budget 2013 included the second year of a two-year municipal capital works program. This funding has allowed us to continue to fund projects all across the province. Projects such as; new potable water dispensing units in Wabana and Pacquet, road improvements in Centreville-Wareham-Trinity, and upgrade work for the community centre in Grand Bank, just to name a few.

In addition, Budget 2013 included funding for a one-time $25 million capital works program for our seven largest municipalities, allocated using a base plus per capita methodology. The department is currently reviewing plans for future municipal capital works funding to inform the upcoming budget process.

Mr. Speaker, we will continue to work with municipalities and the Federal Government to address key infrastructure priorities, and make our communities better places for children and families.

Thank you.

2013 11 27                                     1:50 p.m.