Iqaluit, Nunavut - Small craft harbours are critically important to coastal communities and to Canada's fishing economies. In the Arctic, these harbours serve as community marine infrastructure that enhance safety, improve access and contribute to Canada's broader Arctic sovereignty.
The Honourable Joanne Thompson, Minister of Fisheries announced the completion of a new small craft harbour in Clyde River, Nunavut. This new harbour will provide safe and accessible facilities to commercial fish harvesters, enhancing boater safety, improving the delivery of goods by sea and by creating safer opportunities for economic and social activities.
Following a competitive process in 2022, the nearly $38-million contract was awarded to Pilitak Enterprises Ltd. of Iqaluit, Nunavut.
This project included the construction of breakwaters, a fixed wharf, dredging, a launch ramp, and the installation of floating wharves for safe docking. The harbour is able to accommodate 72 small craft vessels.
The Niutaq Harbour Authority, a not-for-profit corporation led by local community members, will manage the harbour's day-to-day operations, with the harbour anticipated to be operational by the open-water season of this year.
