Liberal MPs say that a new report about strengthening Canada’s Arctic communities confirms the Harper government’s negligence towards Northerners, and supports Liberal commitments to the North.
“This report makes it clear that the level of federal investment in Northern infrastructure is not sufficient,” said Liberal Leader Michael Ignatieff. “In my travels throughout the Arctic, infrastructure needs are being raised constantly as a priority, yet Stephen Harper has spent more than four years ignoring these needs.”
A report released today by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, says that the level of government investment in roads, water systems, affordable housing and broadband internet are “not enough to build the modern infrastructure and transportation linkages northern communities need to grow stronger and more secure over the long-term.” (On the Front Lines of Canada’s Northern Strategy, pg. 10)
The FCM report points to current “fiscal constraints” as a barrier to more investment, and says “waiting for Ottawa to get its books in order will only prolong the hardship in communities and weaken Canada’s Northern presence. Immediate action is required.” (pg. 10)
“The Liberal Party couldn’t agree more with this report’s findings,” said Larry Bagnell, the party’s Critic for Arctic Issues and Northern Development. “The Conservative government has ruined Canada’s finances so badly that Canadian taxpayers are saddled with a $54-billion deficit, which is crippling their ability to meet the needs of Northerners.”
“Instead of wasting $1.3 billion on the G8 and G20 or $10 billion on American-style super-prisons, this government should have made a priority of enhancing Northern infrastructure and facilities,” he continued. “Perhaps Stephen Harper can use some of the billions that he promised for Arctic military purchases – promises that he has failed to keep.”
The FCM report also points out the unique needs of the North with respect to climate change, and recommends specific programs to help Northerners adapt.
“For more than a decade, I have been telling Parliament that nowhere in the world is the climate changing faster than in the Canadian North,” said Mr. Bagnell. “As the permafrost continues to melt, the lives of Northerners are severely affected by damaged roads, buildings and water pipes.”
“In addition, the FCM’s recommendation concerning broadband technology corresponds with the Liberal commitment to have all Canadian communities access high-speed internet and to extend cell phone service,” said Mr. Bagnell.
Michael Ignatieff has committed a future Liberal government to achieving 100% high-speed internet coverage to reach 800,000 Canadians in rural and remote communities who currently have no high-speed internet access. In 2005, the previous Liberal government announced $100 million for rural broadband. The Conservatives cancelled it in Budget 2006.
During a visit to Whitehorse with the Liberal Express two weeks ago, Mr. Ignatieff also talked about Liberal commitments to Aboriginal education, land claims and the Arctic’s environment. The Liberal Express will be travelling to the Northwest Territories next week.
