FFAW Welcomes Increased Federal Investment in Small Craft Harbours

ST. JOHN’S, NL – The Fish, Food and Allied Workers Union (FFAW-Unifor) is commending the Government of Canada for its renewed commitment to small craft harbours, following the release of the 2026 Spring Economic Update, which includes increased investments in critical harbour infrastructure across the country.

FFAW President Dwan Street says the funding is a positive and necessary step toward strengthening coastal communities and supporting the harvesters who rely on safe, functional infrastructure.

“Small craft harbours are the backbone of our fishing industry and the lifeblood of rural Newfoundland and Labrador. This investment recognizes the essential role our harvesters play in Canada’s economy and helps ensure they have safe, reliable access to the wharf,” said Street.

The federal budget outlines additional funding aimed at repairing, maintaining, and modernizing small craft harbours—many of which have faced growing pressures from climate change, aging infrastructure, and increased demand.

Specifically, the announcement detailed the following:

“The Spring Economic Update 2026 proposes to provide $957.8 million over five years, starting in 2026-27, on a cash basis, to Fisheries and Oceans Canada for the Small Craft Harbours Program. This represents an increase of more than 35 per cent per year over the 10-year average and provides needed stability in funding for repairs. This is in addition to the Department’s annual program budget of approximately $90 million a year. Next steps will be announced by the Minister of Fisheries.”

“We’ve seen firsthand the challenges caused by underinvestment such as unsafe conditions, delays, and limited capacity during peak seasons. This commitment is a meaningful step toward addressing those gaps and building resilience in our coastal communities,” Street concludes.