Federal Answers Needed on Wharves

The federal government must clarify its commitment to repairing and replacing storm-damaged wharves in coastal communities, said Ernest Fage, Nova Scotia's Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture.

Mr. Fage said the federal budget did not go far enough and tell Nova Scotians what wharves will be at the top of the funding list, or specify how much money is available.

"I'm calling on the federal government to commit funding to deal with our storm-damaged wharves and for the ongoing upkeep of our marine infrastructure," said Mr. Fage. "I want to see their plans and ensure that Nova Scotia's wharves receive attention."

The recent federal budget announced an additional $320 million in funding over three years to the federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO). The money is going to be shared across the country and will fund wharf repairs, search-and-rescue operations and upgrades to department labs.

"We welcome the funding infusion," said Mr. Fage. "However, we want to make certain for the many fishermen who depend on the wharves that the repair work is evaluated and the funding is distributed fairly."

Years ago the federal government divested the management of harbours and related facilities to local harbour authorities. Each group became responsible for the management and upkeep of all structures within its port. The Small Crafts and Harbours Branch of DFO funds construction and maintenance of wharves. The funding contributions for projects are often triggered by a provincial government agreeing to share costs.

"The department leverages its limited financial and staff resources to assist communities with infrastructure, but this is not enough the meet all of the needs," said Mr. Fage.

Many of the ports will likely not be able to financially afford the repairs to storm-damaged wharves and may be forced to close. The high cost of maintenance will exceed many of the harbour authorities' financial abilities.

Mr. Fage has sent two letters to Herb Dhaliwal, the federal Minister of Fisheries and Oceans. The letters outlined the province's concern with the federal government's devolution of responsibility for marine infrastructure. The letters also urged the federal minister to consider the plight of Nova Scotia harbours and agree to supplement the Small Crafts and Harbours Branch budget for short- and long-term needs.

"Port facilities are an integral part of the communities and without harbour infrastructure, the economy of the area is in jeopardy," said Mr. Fage. "Wharves are public transportation links providing access to commercial fishing, aquaculture, eco-tourism and recreational fishing."

Nova Scotia boasts a 5,000 kilometre shoreline, nearly the same length as the Trans Canada Highway from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean.

The cost of repairing the storm-damaged wharves is estimated to be several million dollars. The cost of upkeep would be millions of dollars more.