Government of Canada invests in Old Crow Airport upgrade

OTTAWA, Aug. 9 /CNW Telbec/ - The Honourable Steven Fletcher, Minister of State for Democratic Reform and Member of Parliament for Charleswood-St. James-Assiniboia, and the Honourable Senator Daniel Lang announced today that the Government of Canada is investing $197,050 to replace the existing snowplow truck at the Old Crow Airport.

"Our government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Harper, is committed to aviation safety and security across the country," said Minister Fletcher. "We are investing in the Old Crow Airport to ensure that efficient and safe systems are in place to serve the community's residents, businesses and visitors well into the future."

"This funding will allow the Old Crow Airport to make an important safety upgrade and maintain excellent service to passengers and businesses throughout the community," said Senator Lang. "Smaller airports are vital to many communities across the country, which is why the Government of Canada is taking action to invest in these much-needed safety upgrades."

"Ensuring airports are able to operate smoothly and safely in the winter months, particularly in snowy conditions, can be a challenge for northern airport operators," said Yukon Minister of Highways and Public Works Archie Lang. "A new snowplow truck will help airport staff to meet this challenge and ensure the safety of all those who travel by air to Yukon's most northerly community."

This year, the Government of Canada will invest more than $42 million in safety-related improvements at airports across Canada. These improvements will be funded in 2010-2011 under the Airports Capital Assistance Program (ACAP).

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