The St. Andrews Biological Station became the recipient of some heavy federal dollars.
Minister of Fisheries and Oceans Dominic LeBlanc says the government promised to invest in infrastructure that matters to Canadians and contributes to the economy.
“I am happy to announce that the St. Andrews Biological Station has received almost $9 million new dollars from the Federal Infrastructure Initiative to improve and upgrade this station’s laboratories and facilities.”
$8.9 million dollars is being invested into upgrading laboratories, and improving safety, accessibility, and security at SABS, which is Atlantic Canada’s oldest marine research facility.
Fifteen new scientist positions were also announced at SABS, through the Oceans Protection Plan and through the 2016 Budget investment in ocean and freshwater sciences.
LeBlanc says under the Oceans Protection Plan 119 scientists are being hired across Canada, which will improve marine safety and responsible shipping, as well as protect coastal habitats.
“135 (scientist positions) from the Budget announcement last year. The announcement that the Prime Minister made, we’ll add 119 to that, and I’m pleased that these two investments combined will lead to fifteen new, permanent positions, here, at the St. Andrews Biological Station.”
Fisheries and Oceans Canada will be hiring 254 science professionals across the country.
