April 15, 2003

OXFORD HOUSE--To provide improved services for community residents, the province has opened a new air terminal in Oxford House, Transportation and Government Services Minister Scott Smith has announced.

"This facility is an investment in the future of Oxford House and a recognition of the importance of Manitoba’s air transportation infrastructure to northern economies", said Smith. "The province’s Northern Development Strategy identifies transportation as a priority for improving the quality of life for northern Manitobans and we are working to achieve that goal."

Culture, Heritage and Tourism Minister Eric Robinson officially opened the new facility here today on behalf of Smith.

The new $250,000, 2,048-square-foot (190-square-metre) facility replaces the old 1,872-square-foot (175-square-metre) terminal that was constructed in 1972. The new facility includes air carrier offices, a larger passenger lounge and washrooms, which the old terminal did not have. The new terminal was constructed by departmental staff and locally hired people.

"Improvements to Northern Manitoba’s air transportation system are vital to the future of our northern communities and the province as a whole," said Robinson. "The new facility is a positive accomplishment in our efforts to renew an aging northern transportation infrastructure and meet the growing needs of the Oxford House community."

The Oxford House airport handled approximately 2,100 flights in 2001-02, representing 7,500 passengers and 500 tonnes of freight. The community of approximately 1,600 is located on the northeast shore of Oxford Lake, 578 kilometres (359 miles) north of Winnipeg.

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