The federal government, which has recently come under fire over its decision to save $800,000 annually by closing the Kitsilano coast guard station, has found $7.3 million in new funding to ensure other B.C. waterways are safe.
On July 16, Ottawa announced the new funding for repair, maintenance and construction projects at small craft harbours in B.C.
The $7.3 million is part of a $51.7 million investment nationwide.
The money will be spent on projects such as repairing a concrete wharf and a wood wharf in Richmond's Steveston area, and dredging.
The dredging ensures larger trawler ships do not get stuck and the other repairs ensure general safety.
"The Harper government understands that safe, efficient harbours are essential for a healthy fishing industry, said Delta-Richmond East MP Kerry-Lynne Findlay.
"Our government is committed to making sure that fishermen have safe and well-kept harbours."
The government's decision in May to close the Kitsilano coast guard continues to generate controversy after a host of high-profile B.C. politicians joined a chorus opposing the move.
That cut is part of a massive round of layoffs at the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO). More than 1,000 DFO employees, including 763 Canadian Coast Guard workers, have received notices suggesting that their jobs could be affected by pending cuts.
That includes 12 coast guard employees at the Kitsilano facility.
