August 24, 2009
Port Alberni, British Columbia
The Government of Canada, through Western Economic Diversification Canada, is investing in a project with the City of Port Alberni in response to changes to the salmon fishery.
Federal funding of $250,000 was announced today by Dr. James Lunney, Member of Parliament for Nanaimo – Alberni, on behalf of the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification. Funding is provided under the West Coast Community Adjustment Program (WestCCAP).
“I’m pleased to announce our Government’s support for this project,” said Dr. Lunney. “Investments such as this are creating and protecting jobs, supporting Canadians who have lost their jobs, helping threatened industries, and building the foundation for our future prosperity.”
With this funding, the City of Port Alberni will build a multi-purpose waterfront boardwalk and floating wharf at Port Alberni’s Harbour Quay, located at the foot of Argyle Street. The project will attract residents and visitors to the Port Alberni Harbour Quay and enhance economic opportunities for current and new businesses at this waterfront destination area.
“The City of Port Alberni is grateful for the federal government’s contribution,” said Mayor Ken McRae. “This project will help to revitalize the Alberni Harbour Quay, providing improved access to our waterfront for residents and tourists. This will move the city closer to its goal of attracting more visitors to the Harbour Quay and Uptown shopping district.”
The West Coast Community Adjustment Program will provide more than $7 million to support economic growth, job creation and the future sustainability of B.C. coastal communities affected by challenges within the salmon fishery. The Fisheries Legacy Trust, comprised of the 13 west coast Community Futures Development Corporations, is delivering this initiative on behalf of Western Economic Diversification Canada. The Government of Canada supports initiatives that combat challenges facing traditional industries and protect resources in affected areas, to support the long-term success of resource-dependent communities.
Western Economic Diversification works with the provinces, industry associations and communities to promote the development and diversification of the western economy, coordinates federal economic activities in the West and represents the interests of western Canadians in national decision making.
For additional information, media should contact:
Donna Howes
Communications Manager, British Columbia
Western Economic Diversification Canada
Telephone: (604) 666-1318
Cell: (604) 505-6616
Russell Dyson
Deputy City Manager
City of Port Alberni
Telephone: (250) 720-2810
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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