North Sydney – Progressive Conservative MLA for Cape Breton North, Cecil Clarke, is pleased that the federal Conservative government has responded to his request to increase the vessel capacity for Marine Atlantic as a result of the significant $203 million investment made in yesterday’s federal budget.

“This speaks to the long-term commitment of the Government of Canada to this vital transportation link that honours the terms of confederation for Newfoundland and Labrador while at the same time sustaining and growing employment as a crown corporation,” said Clarke.  “The acquisition of new vessels to complement the Atlantic Vision will not only grow commercial capacity, but it will also grow tourism related business.”

The next generation investments that are being sought include a new terminal, skywalk, secure safe site, in addition to the current work within the community to explore the feasibility of the marshalling yard adjacent to Marine Atlantic’s site.

The Government of Canada has invested $175 million in marine Atlantic for its fleet and shore facilities in addition to the $28 million that is going to be invested for safety and reliability.  This is on top of the $9.5 million for North Sydney dock facilities announced by Minister MacKay in September.

“The Long term vision of Marine Atlantic is growing stronger by the day for the hard working women and men that are employed at marine Atlantic, the trucking transportation industry, as well as the traveling public who will benefit from this investment to support not only the business case, but growing the Atlantic Gateway,” stated Mr. Clarke.

Mr. Clarke has engaged many federal cabinet ministers in his requests for funding for Marine Atlantic and its infrastructure from the strong support of Minister MacKay, Minister Baird, to the minister responsible for Marine Atlantic, Minister Merrifield.  Minister Merrifield and MLA Clarke have discussed the Marine Atlantic issue and have agreed to continue discussions on the wider role of Marine Atlantic in the future.  MLA Clarke has also indicated to Minister Merrifield that he will continue to work with the local community to channel their input directly to the minister responsible for Marine Atlantic.

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For more information, please contact:

Mike Kydd
Public Relations Advisor
Office of the Leader - PC Caucus
902.424.4996 (o)
902.237.1965 (m)
kyddma@gov.ns.ca