April 4, 2005 Tusket, Nova Scotia Residents of Tusket will soon benefit from municipal wastewater collection and treatment thanks to a $300,190 project funded through the Canada-Nova Scotia Infrastructure Program. Improvements include the design and construction of phase 2 of the sewage collection and treatment system for the community. The new collection system will replace approximately five aging on-site sewage disposal systems, many of which are malfunctioning and in danger of contaminating private wells. Phase one of this project was also funded through the infrastructure program. Joint funding for these projects was announced today, April 4, by the federal and provincial governments, in partnership with the Municipality of the District of Argyle. "Improved infrastructure for our communities is a priority for the Government of Canada, I'm pleased to be able to take a part in an investment that will have a positive impact on the quality of life in this area for years to come," said Robert Thibault, Member of Parliament for West Nova, speaking on behalf of ACOA Minister Joseph McGuire. "We are addressing some of the fundamental needs of our communities," said Barry Barnet, Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations. "Through the Canada-Nova Scotia Infrastructure Program, we are investing in projects like the Tusket Sewage Collection and Treatment project which will ensure safe, reliable wastewater services for the residents of Tusket." The program supports long term economic growth, community infrastructure improvements and environmental enhancements. The federal-provincial share of the project totals $200,126. The Municipality of the District of Argyle will fund the balance of this project. "These funds will enable us to complete this important wastewater project," said Aldric d'Entremont, Warden of the Municipality of the District of Argyle. "This project will have some significant benefits for the health of our community and will make a real impact on the quality of life of our citizens." To date, more than $202 million has been invested in 135 projects through the program, and additional announcements are expected as projects undergo environmental assessment and final approval. The six-year Canada-Nova Scotia Infrastructure Program is administered by the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency and Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations. Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation is a member of the management committee. The Union of Nova Scotia Municipalities is represented on the Program's management committee. - 30 - For further information contact: Valérie Poulin Director of Communications Office of the Honourable Joseph McGuire Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (613) 941-7241 David Harrigan Media Relations Officer Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency 902-426-4238 Deborah Bayer Canada-Nova Scotia Infrastructure Secretariat 902-424-0112 Aldric d'Entremont Warden, Municipality of the District of Argyle 902-648-2311
