This is the first in a series of new, state-of-the-art antennas to be built at satellite receiving stations in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan; Gatineau, Quebec; and Inuvik, Northwest Territories.

"Our government is committed to supporting science and technology in order to build a competitive advantage for Canada," said MP Hoback. "These antennas will prove to be a powerful and cost-effective tool to help address issues of importance relative to the safety, security and economic prosperity of all Canadians." With the second-largest landmass on Earth and the longest coastline in the world, Canada relies on satellite technology to monitor its land and borders. Natural Resources Canada is the federal centre of expertise for the reception, management and interpretation of remotely sensed data generated by satellites.

Investing in the revitalization of these satellite stations will allow Canada to keep pace with current advances in satellite technology and improve the capacity for complete cross-Canada coverage relative to, for example, emergency preparedness and response, shipping and navigation, environmental monitoring, northern sovereignty and responsible resource development.

During the event, MP Hoback also took the opportunity to announce that a contract worth $1.1 million to develop a new data management system was recently awarded to Compusult Ltd. of Mount Pearl, Newfoundland and Labrador.

The Government of Canada is investing in this new data management system to ensure secured accessibility and safeguard satellite information received at our satellite stations.