Harper government invests in safety at Greater Sudbury Airport

SUDBURY, ON — Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird, on behalf of the Honourable Denis Lebel, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, today announced funding for the Greater Sudbury Airport to make an important safety improvement.

This year, the Greater Sudbury Airport is receiving $757,150 through the Airports Capital Assistance Program (ACAP) for the purchase of a firefighting vehicle to replace the previous vehicle, which has reached the end of its useful life.

“The Greater Sudbury Airport is a vital gateway for local residents, businesses, trade and tourism,” said Minister Baird. “A new state-of-the-art fire truck will greatly enhance emergency response capability at the airport.”

“Investing in regional airports is part of our government’s plan to create jobs, economic growth and long-term prosperity,” said Minister Lebel. “The Harper government is supporting airports across the country to improve safety for air travelers and promote the efficient transportation of goods.”

“We are extremely pleased and appreciative of the ongoing financial support provided under Transport Canada’s Airports Capital Assistance Program,” said Bob Johnston, chief executive officer of the Greater Sudbury Airport. “The generous contribution of $757,150 – or 100 per cent of the cost of a new fire truck – will enable the Greater Sudbury Airport to meet its obligations under the Canadian Aviation Regulations and to ensure our fire fighting personnel are able to provide the safest and highest level of response in emergency situations.”

In 2012-2013, the Harper government will invest more than $26.1 million for 36 projects for safety-related improvements at 27 airports across Canada. Improvements include purchasing/replacing heavy airside mobile equipment; installing wildlife fencing; and rehabilitating runway pavements, airfield lighting and electrical systems.

To date, through ACAP, the Government of Canada has invested more than $586.2 million for 716 projects at 173 airports. The Greater Sudbury Airport has received more than $6.4 million for 13 projects, including today’s announcement.