August 27, 2015
Province Announces New Funding for Infrastructure Projects in the North
The Manitoba government is investing more than $30 million to support waste and water projects to benefit residents in 18 northern communities including Norway House, Berens River, Waterhen, Wabowden and Gods Lake Narrows, Aboriginal and Northern Affairs Minister Eric Robinson announced today.
“The Manitoba government is committed to the health of our communities in northern Manitoba,” said Minister Robinson. “This investment in waste and water infrastructure will ensure access to safe, clean drinking water for people in these communities and improve their quality of life for years to come.”
The minister noted the funding includes:
- $11.2 million for water treatment facilities in Cormorant, Bissett, Manigotagan, Pelican Rapids, Sherridon and Thicket Portage including new water and sewer lines and backup generators for the plants; and
- $7 million for new waste-water facilities in Norway House, Cormorant, Matheson Island, Moose Lake, Pelican Rapids and Waterhen.
“New or upgraded waste-water systems help protect our waterways and foster community growth and development,” added Minister Robinson. “This announcement is in keeping with the Manitoba government’s commitment to the development of healthy, safe and sustainable Indigenous and northern communities.”
“On behalf of the Northern Association of Community Councils, I want to acknowledge the Department of Aboriginal and Northern Affairs for the capital funding that has been provided to our communities,” said Reg Mead, president of the council. “These resources are essential to our growth and sustainability towards a healthy future. I look forward to our continued partnership in bridging the gap for northern and Aboriginal Manitobans.”
The province has invested close to $29 million for major infrastructure in a number of northern communities over the last five years.
The minister noted waste disposal sites are also being planned for six communities in partnership with surrounding municipalities and First Nations.
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BACKGROUND INFORMATION ATTACHED
Backgrounder
Background Information - https://www.gov.mb.ca/asset_library/en/newslinks/2015/08/RLS-ANA_capital_grants_BG-AN.doc