News Release

BELLEDUNE (GNB) - The provincial government today announced an investment of more than $4 million in strategic infrastructure improvements at the Belledune Port Authority to help increase the port’s capacity and efficiency.

“We are partnering in the long-term development of the port which will create new opportunities for economic growth in the north,” said Réjean Savoie, minister responsible for the Regional Development Corporation. “This investment will increase capacity and efficiency, making the Belledune Port Authority more competitive and prepared for new business.”

The funding will support the construction of a conveyor system that will alleviate congestion issues at Terminal 3 by using Terminal 2 to unload material in new laydown areas. This will increase the port’s capacity and efficiency and allow larger vessels to dock at Terminal 2, reducing the cost of shipping for the port’s clients.

“In addition to greatly enhancing the performance of our operations, the new conveyor system will electrify the movement of cargo and make an important contribution to reduce our operations’ greenhouse gas emissions,” said Denis Caron, president and CEO of the Belledune Port Authority. “This project is a game changer for our efficiency improvements and allows our partner, QSL, a competitive advantage for cargo handling.”

“At QSL sustainable development is a key to our business model, it is why we are very excited to play a part in today’s announcement by the Port of Belledune and the Province of New Brunswick,” said Robert Bellisle, president and CEO of the stevedoring and logistics services company. “The investments will benefit customers and stakeholders by handling cargoes in a more efficient manner and reduce GHG emissions. The Port of Belledune’s vision of a Green Energy Hub and its work with all stakeholders including First Nations is perfectly aligned with the reasons that propelled QSL to sign the United Nations Global Compact and why we are so proud to operate in Belledune.”

The port’s long-term development plan incorporates strategic initiatives to accomplish significant business growth over the next several years including the creation of a Green Energy Hub, which is intended to work as a catalyst for regional economic development allowing for the port and the province to become viable international energy players.