March 27, 2003

GOD’S RIVER--Transportation and Government Services Minister Scott Smith announced the opening of a new air terminal building here today to improve services for residents of this northern community.

"Manitoba’s northern airport infrastructure is vital to meeting the social, economic and health needs of remote communities," said Smith. "This new terminal illustrates the increasing importance of air access for communities without permanent road access and recognizes the growth of air traffic across our northern regions."

The new $250,000, 2,048-square-foot (190-square-metre) building which replaces the old 533-square-foot (50-square-metre) trailer used at the airport since 1990 was constructed with the assistance of locally hired people. The new facility includes air carrier offices and improved passenger facilities.

"The passenger traffic at God’s River had exceeded the capacity of the old terminal and it was time to plan for the community’s needs well into the future," said Culture, Heritage and Tourism Minister Eric Robinson, who was also on hand for today’s annoucement. "This project reflects the province’s Northern Development Strategy and our commitment to improving services for northern residents."

The God’s River airport handled approximately 2,350 flights in 2001-02, representing 5,000 passengers and 325 tonnes of freight. The community of approximately 500 is located on the north shore of God’s Lake, 591 kilometres (367 miles) north of Winnipeg.

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