August 19, 2009
Campbell River, B.C
The Government of Canada, through Western Economic Diversification Canada, is investing in seven projects in various coastal communities across British Columbia that have been impacted by changes to the salmon fishery.
Federal funding of more than $1.2 million was announced today by John Duncan, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Member of Parliament for Vancouver Island North, 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).
"Our Government is taking action to create jobs and build a stronger economic foundation for B.C.'s coastal communities," said MP Duncan. "The investments announced today will assist our challenged regions through these tough times and help ensure we emerge more competitive and prosperous."
These seven projects range in scope from wharf and marina infrastructure improvements, eco-tourism developments, to waterfront constructions. These projects will create jobs in the immediate future, ensuring that British Columbians are able to return to work and provide economic stability to their community and families.
"The projects announced today will help improve economic diversification, provide employment opportunities, promote sustainable development and advance a collaborative approach," said Mayor Charlie Cornfield, City of Campbell River. "I look forward to continuing to work with Community Futures Development Corporations and coastal communities to develop and implement additional innovative WestCCAP projects."
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.
Donna Howes
Communications Manager, British Columbia
Western Economic Diversification Canada
Telephone: 604-666-1318
Cell: 604-505-6616
Sherree Walter
Executive Director
Community Futures of Central Island
Telephone: 250-753-6414
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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On August 19, 2009, the Government of Canada announced funding of more than $1.2 million towards seven projects benefiting various coastal communities across British Columbia.
Seven Projects:
Skeena-Bulkley Valley :
1) Funding of $189,187 will allow the Bella Coola Harbour Authority to upgrade the Bella Coola Harbour. The project will consist of four phases:
- parking lot expansion
- sewage/wastewater system installation
- breakwater float rehabilitation
- potable water system installation.
The project will diversify the economy within the Bella Coola Valley delivering benefits, including employment for the construction of the project and the immediate enhancement of services offered to boaters.
Vancouver Island North:
2) Funding of $132,000 will assist the Northern Vancouver Island Salmonid Enhancement Association in designing and installing interpretative displays, classroom outfitting and signage for the Quatse Salmon Stewardship Centre. Displays will showcase the importance of salmon within our ecosystems through storylines and interpretive exhibits.
3) Funding of $250,000 for the Namgis First Nation will upgrade its current waterfront. Project activities include repair and renewal of pilings and decking of an existing historic net loft, and the addition of 669 metres of boardwalk to connect this net loft to the new B.C. ferries terminal at Alert Bay.
4) Funding of $92,000 will allow the Namgis First Nation to repair the wharf head on the Namgis dock facility. A comprehensive list of repairs was identified in an Ecotrust Canada inspection report (2008). Components to be replaced include: guardrails, deck timbers, piles, braces and safety handrails.
5) Funding of $250,000 for the Malcolm Island Lions Club will improve and expand the Malcolm Island Harbour in Sointula. The space and condition of the public floats is not adequate to accommodate current needs. An updated and expanded public harbour facility, including a new visitor's dock, will enhance viability of the current tourism operations in the community, as well as provide the necessary infrastructure to develop additional sustainable economic opportunities in the future.
6) Funding of $250,000 for the Quatsino Community Society will upgrade facilities at the Coal Harbour Wharf. Project activities will consist of expanding the floating dock, upgrading lighting and installing access walkways, offloading equipment, small work shed and a floating platform.
7) Funding of $49,550 will allow the Wuikinuxv Economic Development Corporation to construct a 750 square foot cedar carving shed on the bank of the Wanuuk River on Wuikinuxv Nation. The building will provide cover for the First Nation to work on canoes, house materials and create a viewing area to observe the works in progress, which reflect the history of the Wuikinuxv people and its culture. The carving shed will serve as a featured attraction on cultural tours conducted by the Wuikinuxv Nation as part of the overall tourist experience at Rivers Inlet.
