I thank all the ministers for being with us today. We are happy to see them.
Ms. Johnson and those who know me know that I come from a coastal community, a fishing community. My father was a fisherman his whole life. Having spent a lot of time on the docks, I know how important small craft harbours are to communities.
Before I begin, I'd like to put the numbers in perspective. Everybody likes numbers. In your discussions, it will be very important for you to consider what has been done.
From 2006 to 2015, under the former Conservative government, $499 million was invested in small craft harbours in Atlantic Canada over a nine-year period. On average, this represents $55 million per year.
From 2016 to 2022, under the Liberal government, $884 million was invested in small craft harbours in Atlantic Canada over a six-year period. On average, that's $147 million per year.
We are obviously not here to determine which government did the most and which did the least. What we want to see is even more money invested in small craft harbours in every region.
Ms. Johnson, since you are a New Brunswick native, I will definitely ask you some questions.
Have you assessed the damage that the ports in your area have suffered? I know that is usually the responsibility of Fisheries and Oceans Canada, but you may have done an estimate on your end.
We know that southeastern New Brunswick was hit harder than northern New Brunswick, although there was damage there, as well.
What's your estimate on that?
What should we do to help coastal communities as quickly as possible?