News Release

Harbour Solutions Project -Halifax Wastewater Treatment Facility Officially Opened

(Monday, February 11, 2008) – The first of three new Harbour Solutions Project wastewater treatment facilities officially opened this morning.

Federal, provincial and municipal leaders and invited guests attended the official opening ceremony. The opening marks a major milestone in the Harbour Solutions Project and a long awaited day for residents of HRM.

"This is a great day for the residents of HRM and the environment," said Mayor Peter Kelly. "On behalf of Halifax Regional Council, I would like to thank all those involved at all levels of government, both past and present, for their contributions to this project. I would also like to thank residents for their patience and support over the last five years of construction. We will all enjoy the benefits of a much cleaner harbour."

"This new treatment plant demonstrates the Government of Canada's commitment to green initiatives that promote environmental sustainability," said the Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence and Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, speaking on behalf of the Honourable Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities. "By improving the water quality of Halifax Harbour, this infrastructure investment will positively impact tourism and recreation, and enhance the quality of life for residents."

The overall budget for the Harbour Solutions Project is $333 million. The federal government contributed $60 million to the project; the Province of Nova Scotia is contributing $30 million over a 15-year period, as well as approximately $2 million in required land.

The Honourable Jamie Muir, Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations, said, "HRM's new wastewater treatment facility represents a major milestone in Nova Scotia's efforts to have one of the cleanest and healthiest environments in the world by 2020."

Construction on the Dartmouth and Herring Cove wastewater treatment facilities continues. The Dartmouth facility is expected to be operational in the spring/summer of 2008, with the Herring Cove facility following at the end of 2008.

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Mayor Peter J. Kelly David Harrigan
(902) 490-4010 Media Relations Officer
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
(902) 426-4238