The Honourable Barry Petten, Deputy Premier and Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, virtually joined federal, provincial, and territorial (FPT) ministers responsible for infrastructure yesterday to discuss fast-tracking infrastructure throughout Canada, as well as key initiatives and opportunities to build a stronger Canadian economy.

Co-Chaired by the Honourable Gregor Robertson, Canada’s Minister of Housing and Infrastructure, and the Honourable Todd McCarthy, Acting Minister of Infrastructure, Government of Ontario, the meeting emphasized the importance of strong partnerships and how collaborative action helps fast-track infrastructure projects.

During the meeting, the ministers discussed infrastructure priorities, including the Build Communities Strong Fund, a 10-year, $51 billion investment in infrastructure throughout Canada. Ministers agreed that speed is critical and acknowledged the need to move forward decisively to meet Canada’s infrastructure needs. The Build Communities Strong fund can help revitalize local infrastructure – including the hospitals, universities, and colleges that serve residents, and the water systems that sustain towns and communities.

From a provincial perspective, Minister Petten emphasized how Newfoundland and Labrador will be seeking this province’s fair share of federal funding. He also discussed priorities in health infrastructure, the need for program flexibility and the importance of timely federal project approvals.

The ministers also discussed Buy Canadian strategies, which are aimed at leveraging government investments and buying power to support affected sectors and workers and promote jobs and growth in communities in Canada. Minister Petten discussed the importance of local benefits and reiterated government’s campaign commitments regarding an Infrastructure Act, benefits agreements for large-scale projects and apprenticeship targets.

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“Our government is committed to govern with a responsible, realistic, and much-needed plan for Newfoundland and Labrador’s future, and this includes infrastructure priorities. I was delighted to meet with my federal, provincial and territorial counterparts and discuss the infrastructure needs of our province in the broader Canadian context.”
Honourable Barry Petten
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure

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