As part of the Spring Economic Update 2026, the Government of Canada is proposing $957.8 million over five years, starting in 2026–27, for the Small Craft Harbors Program. This program provides investments for ongoing repairs and is in addition to Fisheries and Oceans Canada’s (DFO) existing annual program budget of approximately $90 million.
The Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, the Honorable Heath MacDonald, visited the French River Harbor on Prince Edward Island to highlight an investment from the Spring Economic Update to DFO’s Small Craft Harbors Program, on behalf of the Honorable Joanne Thompson, Minister of Fisheries.
The funding will allow DFO to undertake repairs, upgrades, and dredging at small craft harbor facilities across Canada, including the French River Harbor, where the project will consist of reconstructing marginal wharves 404, 405, and 406, as well as the slipway 501. Repairs will be carried out using the latest climate projections, which will result in climate-resistant infrastructure that meets the needs of the commercial fishing industry and community. French River Harbor is home to approximately 17 commercial harvesters, and the main fishery is lobster.
As Canada transforms from economic reliance to resilience, this investment will support local economic development for generations to come.
The Government of Canada is building a Canada that is not just strong, but good; not just prosperous, but fair. We’re building Canada strong, for all.
“Small craft harbors are the working backbone of coastal communities in Canada. This is the largest investment ever made in small craft harbors, reaffirming this new government’s commitment to coastal communities, helping bring Canadian product to market. Harvesters depend on them, and the communities around them depend on harvesters. This funding will keep harbors safe and operational across the country, so rural and coastal economies stay strong and resilient for the long haul,” said the Honorable Joanne Thompson, Minister of Fisheries.
“The Spring Economic Update 2026 builds on the momentum of our budget, combining strategic investments with sustained fiscal discipline to keep building Canada Strong for All—delivering prosperity today and strengthening our economy for tomorrow. At this pivotal moment in Canada’s history, we’re charting a course through the fog of uncertainty and global headwinds with strength, determination, and ambition—and building one strong Canadian economy, by Canadians, for Canadians,” said the Honorable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Finance and National Revenue.
“The fishing and aquaculture industry is a pillar of Prince Edward Island’s economy, known for its globally recognized seafood products. Our investment in small craft harbors will help modernize wharfs and harbors across Canada, ensuring the safety of our harvesters and the continued prosperity of our coastal communities,” said the Honourable Heath MacDonald, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food.
