July 22, 2009
Ashcroft, British Columbia
Ashcroft will move forward with improvements to their arena thanks to the Recreational Infrastructure Canada (RInC) program, a major job creating initiative from Canada's Economic Action Plan.
Today, the Honourable Chuck Strahl, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians and Member of Parliament for Chilliwack - Fraser Canyon, on behalf of the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification, announced federal funding that will improve recreational opportunities for local residents.
" Our Government is proud to support the Ashcroft Arena upgrade, " said Minister Strahl. " This investment will create immediate jobs, encourage greater participation in physical activity, and will serve our community for years to come. "
Federal funding of $30,000 is provided through the Recreational Infrastructure Canada (RInC) program under Canada's Economic Action Plan.
Funding for the Village of Ashcroft will help purchase a dehumidifier and new doors for the Ashcroft Arena. Installation of the dehumidifier will reduce condensation build up, which is creating rust on structural and cosmetic surfaces, and reduce weeping onto the ice, which can cause a skating hazard. The dehumidifier will also decrease the amount of energy needed to create and maintain the ice surface.
" On behalf of all the citizens of Ashcroft and the surrounding area I would like to thank the Federal Government for providing this grant for our Drylands Arena. We were very excited to see a funding program that permitted upgrades to existing facilities rather than funds for new infrastructure. These improvements will permit us to continue to offer a safe, healthy activity to our residents in a cost effective manner, " said Andy Anderson, Mayor, Village of Ashcroft.
The Recreational Infrastructure Canada (RInC) program, is part of Canada's Economic Action Plan. RInC will invest $500 million in recreational facilities across Canada over a two-year period. It will provide a temporary economic stimulus that will help reduce the impacts of the global recession while renewing, upgrading and expanding recreational infrastructure in Canadian communities.
Please visit the Recreational Infrastructure Canada (RInC) program in the West, or Canada's Economic Action Plan for more information.
For additional information, contact:
Donna Howes,
Communications Manager, B.C.
Western Economic Diversification Canada
Telephone: 604-666-1318
Cell: 604-505-6616
Michelle Allen
Chief Administrative Officer
Village of Ashcroft
Phone: 250-453-9161
Fax: 250-453-9664
WD Toll-Free Number :1 888 338-WEST (9378)
Teletypewriter (TTY) : 1 877 303-3388
Website : WD is online at www.wd-deo.gc.ca .
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