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February 25, 2013
For immediate release
Federal and provincial governments invest in infrastructure project to benefit local First Nation
Fisheries, Aquaculture and Rural Development
The Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of National Revenue and Minister for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), and the Honourable Ron MacKinley, PEI Minister of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Rural Development, and Brian Francis, Chief of the Abegweit First Nation, today announced details for upgrades to the Abegweit Community Centre.
“Our Government is committed to creating jobs, growth and long-term prosperity in our communities,” said Minister Shea. “Our investment into improvements at the Abegweit Community Centre will support the prosperity of the Abegweit First Nation and the local Aboriginal groups for years to come.”
The Government of Canada is investing $129,920 from the Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund. The Government of Prince Edward Island is investing $75,000 under the Island Community Fund.
“This Island Community Fund investment is an investment in the future of the Abeqweit First Nation,” said Minister MacKinley. “Enlarging the community centre will allow for an expansion of the centre’s programming which is focused on youth and the overall health of the community.”
These investments will help the Abegweit First Nation build a 3,200 square ft. addition to the existing Abegweit Community Centre. Further upgrades will include the installation of a new security system, a new septic system, expanded parking and a driveway. The new addition to the facility will enable the Abegweit First Nation to further expand an ongoing, strong focus on developing the overall health of the community with the goal of building a prosperous future.
"A community family resource centre where parenting support and youth intervention programs are available will build upon existing strengths and resources in the community and further support the vision of a strong Mi'kmaq nation into the future,” said Abegweit First Nation Chief Brian Francis. “I would like to extend my appreciation to ACOA and the Island Community Fund for partnering with the Abegweit First Nation in funding this valuable project.”
In Economic Action Plan 2012, the Harper Government announced plans to further modernize Canada’s infrastructure by committing $150 million over two years for the Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund. The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency is delivering the Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund in Atlantic Canada with an allocation of $16.6 million over two years, of which $2.5 million will be invested in Prince Edward Island.
The Prince Edward Island Government is delivering funds to eligible projects through the Island Community Fund, a multi-year funding commitment to address infrastructure needs in communities across the province.
