NORTH SYDNEY, N.S. — The federal government has committed a half-billion dollars to Marine Atlantic which is earmarked for upgrades to its terminal and port infrastructure, including construction of a new terminal building in North Sydney.

The funding was announced yesterday by Rob Merrifield, Minister of State (Transport).

“Today’s investment will help Marine Atlantic renew its fleet and shore facilities, and improve the quality and reliability of its services,” Merrifield said.

The Port aux Basques and Argentia terminal buildings will also be improved, thanks to the cash injection.

“The Government of Canada’s significant investment in Marine Atlantic will enable the corporation to move forward with its plans to renew the ferry service,” said Rob Crosbie, chair of Marine Atlantic’s board of directors. “This is the first time in many years that the organization has received a commitment of five-year funding. It provides the corporation with the ability to plan a multi-year investment strategy that will result in the renewal of its fleet, terminal and other shore facilities, thereby improving the quality and reliability of its services. This investment will provide the necessary assets to meet the corporation’s mandate for this vital ferry service.”

Wayne Follett, president and CEO of the crown corp., said the service will also be focusing on improving its processes to improve service.

“There is much work to be done and the necessary changes will not occur overnight. In addition to the investment in physical assets, we will be making changes to our business processes to ensure we provide a safe, reliable and efficient ferry service for the long term,” he said.