Current Affairs
Canada to Discontinue Construction of Nanisivik Arctic Naval Facility
Canada is discontinuing construction at the long-delayed Nanisivik naval refueling station in the High Arctic, initially announced in 2007 by former Prime Minister Stephen Harper with completion expected by 2015. The decision stems from high operational costs and technical challenges. Alternative options include the deep water port in Iqaluit and the private port of Milne owned by Baffinland Iron Mines. Upgraded Arctic patrol ships requiring less refueling have made further investments in Nanisivik unnecessary. Ottawa has spent over $70 million on the project, with estimates of $180 million needed to fix bacterial corrosion at the wharf.