As the new minister of infrastructure and transportation I am already working on many issues directly affecting Northern Manitoba.
One of my main priorities has been the new campus for UCN. My department is directly responsible for the development and construction of the UCN capital expansion. There are several components to the UCN capital expansion. The new campus in Thompson will be of huge importance. In the end it will be the largest single public investment in the history of Thompson.
In The Pas the existing campus is being renewed. Throughout the North we are upgrading the facilities at the community campuses.
The UCN capital project will provide the facilities that we deserve for our post-secondary institution.
I have also been focusing on transportation. When I was first appointed as minister a decade ago we made a major commitment to upgrade Northern roads. We have seen a significant investment since then but more needs to be done. Similarly we have invested in Northern aviation and our ferry system but more needs to be done.
I have also been working on the need to preserve bus transportation. Many communities rely heavily on bus transportation here in the north. We need to ensure this service can continue to operate in the future.
I have placed a priority on issues related to rail service and the Port of Churchill. Rail service is crucial to many Northern communities and Churchill is an important strategic asset for the future.
I am also working on infrastructure issues. As minister I am responsible for the federal-provincial infrastructure programs that can provide the funds to address the infrastructure needs in the North and elsewhere in the province.
I believe it is important to continue to make significant progress on improving transportation and infrastructure in Northern Manitoba and throughout the province. Our future development depends on it.
