FEDERAL – The federal government is planning more than $41.7 million in investments into safety at local and regional airports over the next year, according to a news release from Transport Canada (TC). Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Families, Children and Social Development, made the announcement in Baie-Comeau, Que. on May 24, on behalf of Transport Minister Marc Garneau. The money will fund safety-related improvement projects at 34 airports across the country, including runway rehabilitation, airfield lighting and hydro improvements and buying equipment for snow and ice removal. “Safe and efficient airports are vital to the economic and social well-being of smaller communities,” said Duclos. “Our investments help improve access to safe and efficient air-transportation options and deliver on our promise to help build safer, healthier and stronger communities across Canada.” The investment is through TC’s Airports Capital Assistance Program, the release noted.