New projects funded under the Safety Equipment and Basic Marine Infrastructure in Northern Communities Initiative

First Nations, Métis, and Inuit share ties to Canada’s oceans and waterways that span generations. Through Canada’s Oceans Protection Plan, the Government of Canada works closely with Indigenous Peoples and coastal regions to build connected communities while collaborating to protect, preserve, and restore our oceans and waterways.

The Minister of Transport and Internal Trade, the Honourable Chrystia Freeland, announced an investment of up to $57.8 million for 15 projects through the Oceans Protection Plan’s Safety Equipment and Basic Marine Infrastructure in Northern Communities Initiative. This funding will allow Arctic and Northern coastal communities to expand storage facilities and upgrade sealift area infrastructure to improve the safety and efficiency of local sealift and resupply operations. An estimated 47 Northern communities will benefit from this investment, creating local jobs, building stronger supply chains, improving marine safety, and reducing environmental risks.

“Resupply and sealift operations are absolutely essential for Northern communities. By investing in these upgrades and expansions, we can help support their needs, strengthen local economies and meet the increasing demands for essential goods,” said The Honourable Chrystia Freeland, Minister of Transport and Internal Trade.

The Government of Canada is committed to working meaningfully with First Nations, Métis, and Inuit, and coastal communities in delivering the Oceans Protection Plan and respecting the implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act.

The Oceans Protection Plan is a Canadian success story. When Indigenous Peoples, industry, communities, experts, academia, and governments work together to protect our environment, grow our economy, and support good jobs across the country, we deliver real results for Canadians. Canada’s Oceans Protection Plan is keeping our oceans and coasts healthy, advancing reconciliation, and building a cleaner future for our children and grandchildren.