Government invests in winter roads program

TORONTO — Greg Rickford, minister of energy, northern development and mines, attended the Chiefs of Ontario Special Chiefs’ Assembly in Toronto recently to announce $5.7 million in funding for 29 First Nations and the Town of Moosonee to build and maintain 3,160 kilometres of temporary winter roads.

Weather permitting, the winter roads network is open from around mid-January until the spring thaw, indicates a release.

“Winter roads provide vital connections to all-season roads, making it easier to bring in essential services and goods like food, medical and construction supplies,” said Rickford in a statement.

“The winter roads network also supports the local economy in Far North communities by providing more affordable transportation options for the mining industry.”