Canada's Department of Fisheries and Ocean has announced a multi-million dollar investment in Red Head Harbor in Prince Edward Island, the latest in part of its nearly CAD 1 billion (USD 718,422,509, EUR 622,488,668) investment across the country.
Canada Minister of Fisheries Joanne Thompson announced Phase 2 of a major reconstruction project at Red Head Harbor, which involved the complete reconstruction of the western wharf. DFO said the project will improve the safety, reliability, and climate resilience of the facility for harvesters and harbor users.
Thompson said part of the work is related to repairing damage that occurred during post-tropical storm Fiona, which caused an estimated USD 500 million (EUR 433 million) in damages to Canada’s east coast.
“The repairs at Red Head Harbor will give harvesters a safe place to work, built to stand up to the sea surges and tides we are seeing more of,” Thompson said. “I want to thank the Red Head Harbor Authority for the work they have put in alongside us."
DFO said the project will take multiple years to complete, and will support economic growth both during its construction and after it is completed. DFO said the first phase will see the removal of the wharf structure that was destroyed during the storm, before the entire structure is rebuilt.
DFO said the harbor supports nearly 50 commercial vessels and crews in the area.
"Red Head Harbour plays an important role in supporting harvesters, families, and businesses in our community,” Kent MacDonald, a member of parliament for Cardigan in Prince Edward Island, said. “The reconstruction of the western wharf will help improve safety and reliability for harbor users while ensuring this vital piece of infrastructure can continue serving local fishers for generations. Investments like this demonstrate our commitment to the communities that depend on a strong and sustainable fishing industry."
