News Release
Project 4 - All-Season Road Connecting Berens River to Poplar River First Nation — Environmental Assessment Decision

June 27, 2017 — Ottawa — Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency

The Government of Canada is committed to supporting modern community infrastructure while protecting the environment. Responsible and sustainable development of all-season highways creates stronger community connections, supports improved transportation of goods, and provides greater opportunities for community development.

The Honourable Catherine McKenna, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, today announced that the proposed Project 4 - All-Season Road Connecting Berens River to Poplar River First Nation is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects and the project can proceed. The project is a 94 kilometre-long all season, gravel public highway between Berens River First Nation and Poplar River First Nation, on the east side of Lake Winnipeg, Manitoba.

In reaching her decision, the Minister considered the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency's Environmental Assessment Report. The Report includes the Agency's conclusions and recommendations on the potential environmental effects of the project, the proposed mitigation measures, the significance of any adverse environmental effects and the follow-up program.

As part of the Environmental Assessment Decision Statement, the Minister established legally-binding conditions, including mitigation measures and follow-up requirements that the proponent must meet throughout the life of the project. Implementing these conditions will reduce or eliminate the potential effects of the project on the environment.

As a next step, the proponent is required to obtain the appropriate regulatory authorizations and permits before construction can begin.

Quote

"Meaningful consultation with Indigenous groups, including active consideration of Indigenous knowledge, is key to a thorough environmental assessment and effective decision-making. Once operational, the all-season road will foster connections between remote First Nation communities on the east side of Lake Winnipeg by providing year-round transportation service."

– The Honourable Catherine McKenna, Minister of Environment and Climate Change

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Contacts

Marie-Pascale Des Rosiers
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change
819-938-9272

Jaclyn Sauvé
Communications Advisor
Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency
613-862-5596
Jacyln.Sauve@ceaa-acee.gc.ca

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Document Reference Number: 27

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