Funding announcement for ferry, wharf

A spokesman for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency said Minister Peter MacKay will make the announcement, accompanied by provincial politicians from Nova Scotia and New Brunswick.

Although ACOA is believed to be contributing some of the funding, MacKay will be representing Transport Canada, the main contributor to the ferry and wharf assistance.

The announcement is likely to be a “defining moment” for both ferry and wharf, according to sources.

“It’s good news for the wharf,” said one official. Several millions of dollars are expected for the first phase of repairs to the Digby wharf.

There is a suggestion that only an extension of 16 months to two years can be expected for the ferry.

As of 10:45 a.m. Thursday there was no news release from Transport Canada announcing MacKay’s visit, and Digby mayor Frank Mackintosh was somewhat surprised Thursday morning that the area mayors and wardens, who have been fighting for the ferry’s future, had not been given official notice.

Julie MacLean, general manager of Growth Opportunities Ltd., is urging a strong local turnout for the 2 p.m. announcement.