OTTAWA — The federal government has made an important announcement regarding the availability of funding through the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada (IAAC). This funding is specifically designated to help Indigenous communities and members of the public participate in the impact assessment process for the proposed Sorel-Tracy Port Terminal Project. The government’s initiative is aimed at ensuring that all relevant stakeholders have an opportunity to engage in the assessment of the potential environmental, social, and economic impacts of the project.

QSL International Ltd. has proposed the development of a new port terminal in the industrial-port zone of Sorel-Tracy, located in Quebec. The project involves the construction and operation of a modern port terminal designed to accommodate the growing transportation needs of various industries. The terminal would feature a new floating wharf and the necessary intermodal infrastructure to facilitate the efficient movement of goods. The project is expected to support the shipment of a variety of products, including agricultural commodities, fertilizers, road salt, and oversized steel components. The terminal would also have the capacity to handle up to 35 ships annually, contributing significantly to the region’s trade and transportation infrastructure.

To ensure transparency and public involvement, the government is offering funding to help eligible individuals and organizations engage with the impact assessment process. This includes providing feedback on the proponent’s detailed impact statement and the IAAC’s draft impact assessment report, which will outline potential conditions for the project’s approval. The funding is intended to support participation in these important steps, which allow the public and Indigenous groups to have their voices heard regarding the potential effects of the project on their communities and the environment.

The deadline for submitting applications for this funding is March 14, and those who meet the eligibility requirements are encouraged to apply. This initiative is part of the broader commitment by the federal government to ensure that Indigenous people and the public can meaningfully participate in the decision-making process regarding major infrastructure projects.

For further information on the Participant Funding Program, including the criteria for eligibility and instructions on how to apply, interested parties are invited to reach out directly to the Participant Funding Program through the appropriate channels.

In the near future, the IAAC will also announce the beginning of a public consultation period, which will allow members of the public to provide additional input and feedback on the Sorel-Tracy Port Terminal Project. This consultation will offer another important opportunity for individuals and groups to have their concerns and opinions considered as part of the overall assessment process. The government remains committed to engaging with all stakeholders in an open and inclusive manner, ensuring that the views of those affected by the project are taken into account before a final decision is made.