SAINT JOHN — The Honourable Greg Thompson, Minister of Veterans Affairs, announced today that the Government of Canada will invest in a project in Saint John, New Brunswick, that supports environmentally friendly transportation.

"I am proud that our government supports projects that can be good for our economy and our environment," said Minister Thompson. "It will improve the public transit system here in Saint John and have a positive effect on our environment by reducing emissions."

Saint John Transit will receive a contribution of up to $210,000 for a project to increase ride sharing and the use of public transit in the local area.

"Our government is investing in the economic and environmental future of our country," said Canada's Transport Minister, John Baird. "This project will promote greener transportation alternatives while also stimulating our economy and creating jobs."

The ecoMOBILITY program works with provinces, municipalities and regional transportation authorities to help develop initiatives that encourage commuters to choose public transit or other alternatives to personal vehicles. Through the program, the government is taking action to find ways to meet transportation needs, reduce costs to Canadians and protect the environment.

The ecoMOBILITY program is part of the Government of Canada's ecoTRANSPORT Strategy, which has three goals: 1) improving the health of Canadians and the environment by reducing the environmental impacts of transportation; 2) contributing to Canada's future prosperity and competitiveness by making critical transportation infrastructure sustainable both economically and environmentally; and 3) promoting an efficient transportation system that supports choice and the high quality of life Canadians expect.