OTTAWA, Aug. 10 -- B. Haegele Enterprises Ltd. from Belleville, Ont., has been awarded a contract worth $1.7 million to renovate the Clement Building at CFB Kingston, which will become part of the consolidated Canadian Forces Joint Signal Regiment headquarters. The contract was awarded following a competitive bidding process. "The upgrading of these facilities for the unit, along with its new, state-of-the-art facilities, demonstrates the federal government's commitment to investing in the operational readiness of the Canadian Forces," said Minister of National Defence Bill Graham. "I am certain this facility will assist the men and women who form part of the Joint Signal Regiment to better discharge their responsibilities and enable them to plan for the future." The renovation of the Clement Building will provide for the relocation of approximately 45 staff, their material and equipment, allowing them to co- locate with the rest of their unit at the newly expanded JSR compound. The future residents of the renovated Clement Building now occupy rented accommodations across the city. "The Joint Signal Regiment, as an integral part of the Canadian Forces Joint Operations Group, needs to be rapidly deployable to support domestic and international operations, including humanitarian operations and disaster relief missions," said the Chief of the Defence Staff, General Ray Henault. "This consolidated, modern facility at CFB Kingston will greatly enhance the operational efficiency of the JSR." Approximately 20 jobs will be created during the duration of the renovation, which is expected to be completed in January 2005. Funding for this initiative is built into the existing fiscal framework. For further information: (613) 996-2353/54, After hours: (613) 792-2973, World Wide Web: http://www.forces.gc.ca
