August 18, 2009
Vanderhoof, British Columbia
Today, Dick Harris, Member of Parliament for Cariboo – Prince George, on behalf of the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification, announced a federal investment for the District of Vanderhoof to develop an economic improvement plan that will benefit the Vanderhoof economy.
“Our Government’s investment will assist the District of Vanderhoof to create new opportunities and a stronger economic foundation for the future,” said MP Harris. “This investment encourages local cooperation and will better position our region to respond to the challenges of the mountain pine beetle infestation."
“Council is committed to the development of an economic strategy that makes sure our community is sustainable, not only economically, but also socially and environmentally. This strategy must seek to diversify our local economy by finding ways we can encourage new business ventures to our community and yet ensure the viability and expansion of the businesses that have kept our community successful in the past. The District of Vanderhoof wants to thank Western Economic Diversification Canada and the Government of Canada for the funding to allow us to move forward with this important project,” said Mayor Thiessen.
With the investment announced today, the District of Vanderhoof will generate an economic development plan that outlines specific economic goals and objectives for the community, and actions necessary to achieve them. The plan will provide focus and unify the various sectors of the community toward a common vision that promotes economic development, and respects and enhances the social, cultural and environmental quality of life. It will provide direction for Council and the community, ensuring a sustainable, diversified economic base and increased employment opportunities for residents of the region.
Federal funding of $45,000 is being provided by Western Economic Diversification Canada under the Community Economic Diversification Initiative (CEDI), a component of the federal Mountain Pine Beetle Program.
For more information on the federal Mountain Pine Beetle Program, please visit: http://mpb.cfs.nrcan.gc.ca/.
For more information on Canada’s Economic Action Plan, please visit: http://www.actionplan.gc.ca/.
For additional information, contact:
Donna Howes
Communications Manager, British Columbia
Western Economic Diversification Canada
Telephone: (604) 666-1318
Cell: (604) 505-6616
Kathie Laforge
Economic Development Officer
District of Vanderhoof
(250) 567-4711
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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