August 28, 2009 French Creek, British Columbia
The Government of Canada, through Western Economic Diversification Canada, is investing in a project with the French Creek Harbour Authority, in response to changes within the salmon fishery.
Federal funding of $84,000 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).
“ This project is example of the benefits we get from timely investments in community infrastructure – jobs today and a stronger economy for years to come, ” said Dr. Lunney, “ With our Government's investment, the upgraded harbour will improve tourism operations, attract investment, and create new opportunities for our region. ”
With this funding, the French Creek Harbour Authority will create a dedicated visitor's dock and a 120-foot public sales dock to attract additional tourism and investment opportunities to the Oceanside region.
" The goal of coastal Community Futures are to ensure that communities maximize the economic benefits and diversification opportunities offered by harbours and ports, ” said George Lerchs, Fisheries Legacy Trust. “ We are glad to be partnered with the federal government and other community partners through WestCCAP , which helps allocate resources and helps achieve this goal. "
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 declines in resource-based sectors (forestry and fishing). The Fisheries Legacy Trust, comprising the 13 west coast Community Futures Development Corporations, is delivering this initiative on behalf of Western Economic Diversification. 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
Julie Blood
Harbour Master
French Creek Harbour Authority
Telephone: 250-248-5051
Email: julie@frenchcreekharbour.com
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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