More than 2,600 households in Cape Breton Regional Municipality (CBRM) will soon have better treated wastewater thanks to funding through the Canada-Nova Scotia Municipal Rural Infrastructure Fund.

Federal and provincial funding of $11,432,762 was announced today, May 6, for the five projects, with each level of government contributing one-third of the cost of each project. CBRM will fund the balance upon formal acceptance of the agreement and environmental assessment approvals.

In a showcase of the new program's top priorities, the CBRM projects include the design and construction of a collection and treatment system in Dominion, a new sewer interceptor main along the south side of Sydney Harbour, a new collection system and treatment of wastewater in Little Bras d'Or, upgrades to water and wastewater services in Sydney Mines, and the installation of individual grinder pumps and a forcemain in New Victoria and Reserve Mines.

"Today's investment is a fine example of our government providing opportunities for our communities to prosper, be vibrant and safe," said Premier Rodney MacDonald. "We will continue to collaborate and partner with the federal and municipal governments to provide the best possible infrastructure for Nova Scotia communities."

"Infrastructure is the foundation of our quality of life, our economic progress, and our environmental sustainability. The projects we are announcing today will ensure that key infrastructure is in place not only for residents of CBRM but, in several cases, have the added benefit of supporting our growing tourism and cultural sectors," said Peter MacKay, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency.

The infrastructure program supports community infrastructure improvements, such as water, wastewater, and solid waste management.

"This municipality has a lot of infrastructure needs and today's investment will go a long way toward meeting those needs," said John Morgan, mayor of CBRM. "These projects will help pave the way for future economic and residential growth in CBRM."

The $111-million, six-year Canada-Nova Scotia Municipal Rural Infrastructure Fund is administered by the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency and Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations. Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation and the Union of Nova Scotia Municipalities are members of the management committee.

-30-

For more information:

David Harrigan

Media Relations Officer

ACOA Nova Scotia

902-426-4238

Deborah Bayer

Communications Advisor

Canada-Nova Scotia Infrastructure Secretariat

902-424-0112