The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is providing $10 million to support the Town of Lewisporte in pursuing economic development opportunities and the transfer of the Lewisporte wharf and related lands.

The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador made the announcement today in Lewisporte and was joined by the Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, Derek Bennett, MHA for Lewisporte – Twillingate and Krista Freake, Mayor of Lewisporte.

The Provincial Government is committed to working collaboratively with the town to explore economic development and diversification initiatives in the area, in an effort to mitigate the impacts of the closure of the freight service operating from Lewisporte.

The support will be provided to the town through two funding streams:

• $5 million for identified projects that support local economic development opportunities and will be administered by the Department of Industry, Energy and Technology; and
• $5 million in support of the future transfer of the wharf that was originally used for marine freight service operations, as well as the associated lands.

The specific economic development initiatives that will be pursued, as well as the details regarding the future transfer of the wharf, will be subject to various terms and conditions to be finalized.

This initiative aligns with supports that have been provided to other rural communities that are undergoing economic change and transformation, as the Provincial Government continues to work with businesses and municipalities in all areas of the province on projects aimed at enhancing economic development, innovation, capacity building and sustainability.

Quotes
“In Newfoundland and Labrador we know that where there are challenges, there are new opportunities, and The Town of Lewisporte is showing its commitment to navigating economic changes it faces. Our government is here to support Lewisporte and other communities across the province, and the investment we are providing today is aimed at new economic development opportunities that will help the Town of Lewisporte chart a new path forward.”
Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“We are committed to the economic success of the Town of Lewisporte. Our government’s collaboration with the town has resulted in a plan forward that will maximize benefits for residents, and we will continue our work regarding the eventual ownership of the wharf and associated properties to benefit the town and residents.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure

“Challenges can often lead to new and exciting opportunities. I commend the leadership of the Town of Lewisporte on their work to build capacity and encourage and grow economic development opportunities that can have a positive impact on the town and the entire region.”
Honourable John Haggie
Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs

“As Member of the House of Assembly for the District of Lewisporte – Twillingate, it gives me great pleasure to see the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador commit financial support to the Town of Lewisporte as a result of the economic impacts realized since the closure of the Marine Freight Service. Lewisporte has faced adversity, but the community has demonstrated resilience and has a clear vision for a vibrant and prosperous community. I look forward to working with the Town of Lewisporte and Government of Newfoundland and Labrador as we work through the various economic development initiatives.
Derek Bennett
MHA for Lewisporte-Twillingate

“I would like to extend a sincere thank you to our partners in government, council and staff of the Town of Lewisporte for recognizing that the port of Lewisporte is crucial to both our identity as a community and future economic growth.  Our progressive economic diversification strategy, with continued collaboration and collective efforts with government, reflects our vision and endeavour to market Lewisporte as an industry leader in this province and we look forward to a future of possibility.”
Her Worship Krista Freake
Mayor of Lewisporte

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