Harbour Breton, NL – “The Government of Canada is prepared to come to the table with $2 million in programs and services for Harbour Breton, Bill Matthews, Member of Parliament for Random-Burin-St. George’s,” said today.
Mr. Matthews states that the federal government will work with Newfoundland and Labrador, the town of Harbour Breton and the business community to access a minimum of $2 million in federal funding to address the crisis faced by the residents. On Monday June 20, a meeting of Federal and Provincial officials will be held in St. Johns to find a shared solution as quickly as possible.
“We have to work together towards a common goal to ensure the needs of this community are addressed,” said Mr. Matthews. “Federal officials are on the ground, and ready to engage the community, along with the province, so that we can help the people of Harbour Breton.”
As an example of possible federal assistance, the Government of Canada is offering funding for an economic development assessment of Harbour Breton. This federal support will free up $250,000 in funding committed by the province which it can now use to provide immediate aid to the residents of the town.
Over the past several years, various federal departments and agencies have been on the ground in Harbour Breton – investing over $5.5 million towards projects ranging from tourism to various employment support measures.
Recognizing that the ultimate solution falls under provincial jurisdiction, the Government of Canada has been, and will continue, to provide assistance through existing programs.
In the long term, departments like Fisheries and Oceans are prepared to explore all possible options.
Today’s announcement is a clear indication of the federal government’s commitment to the well being of the people of Harbour Breton.
-30-
For information:
Michael O'Shaughnessy
Director of Communications
Office of the Honourable Lucienne Robillard
(613) 943-1838