The federal Liberals' announcement of repairs to dozens of small craft harbours in Atlantic Canada and Quebec has sparked controversy, with the Tories dismissing it as "electioneering." Nova Scotia Liberal MP Mike Kelloway revealed plans for $463.3 million allocated for harbour repairs over three years, aiming to pressure political rivals to support the federal budget.
Parliamentary secretary Mike Kelloway defended the initiative, challenging the Conservatives to support investments in coastal economic hubs. However, Conservative fisheries critic Clifford Small criticized the move as "electioneering at its best," citing a lack of clarity on how the allocated funds would be spent.
While Fisheries and Oceans officials await completion of upcoming repairs and dredging projects before providing cost breakdowns, Small reiterated his party's commitment to doubling the small craft harbours budget. Many of the announced repairs focus on dredging, with ongoing recovery efforts in areas like Ingonish, Cape Breton, still grappling with Hurricane Fiona's aftermath. Adam Burns of Fisheries and Oceans highlighted ongoing analysis to address dredging needs in impacted areas.
Source: Paul Withers (April 29, 2024). Tories dismiss fishing harbour repairs by federal Liberals as 'electioneering'. CBC News. https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/nova-scotia/federal-harbour-repair-announcement-atlantic-canada-quebec-1.7188643
