News Release

MONCTON (GNB) – Provincial, federal and municipal officials announced funding today to upgrade Moncton’s drinking water system by using technology to remove harmful toxins that blue-green algae can produce.

“Our government’s priority is to invest in strategic infrastructure projects that build vibrant and sustainable communities,” said Finance and Treasury Board Minister Ernie Steeves. “With these upgrades, we are protecting public health and equipping the city with the infrastructure it needs for continued population growth and economic recovery.”

Steeves spoke on behalf of Environment and Climate Change Minister Gary Crossman, who is also minister responsible for the Regional Development Corporation

The project involves researching and testing new and existing water treatment processes that will remove toxins, as well as selecting and implementing the chosen process to mitigate the increasing threat of blue-green algae.

“Investments in essential public infrastructure are vital to building resilient communities. Improving Moncton’s drinking water system will provide residents with safer and more reliable water services for years to come,” said Moncton-Riverview-Dieppe MP Ginette Petitpas Taylor. “Canada’s infrastructure plan invests in thousands of projects, creates jobs, and builds cleaner, more inclusive communities.”

Taylor spoke for federal Infrastructure and Communities Minister Catherine McKenna.

The federal government is investing $8.8 million through the Green Infrastructure Stream of the Investing in Canada program to support this project. The provincial government is providing over $7.3 million, and the City of Moncton is contributing over $5.8 million.

“The City of Moncton is responsible for New Brunswick’s largest municipal potable water supply,” said Mayor Dawn Arnold. “As we saw in the summer of 2020, blue-green algae presents a real threat to our watershed and this funding will ensure we take the required steps to minimize toxins and ensure the residents of Moncton, Riverview, and Dieppe have safe, quality drinking water. By equipping Greater Moncton with the required infrastructure, we are protecting our water supply to support our region’s continued growth.”