June 29, 2010
Powell River, British Columbia
Today, John Weston, Member of Parliament for West Vancouver—Sunshine Coast—Sea to Country, on behalf of the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Member of State for Western Economic Diversification Canada, announced support to the Okeover Harbour Authority to redevelop the Okeover Inlet Small Craft Harbour.
“Our Government is committed to working with communities toward a more sustainable future for fishing communities,” said MP Weston. “Upgrades to the harbour will enhance the viability of existing tourism operations in the community, as well as provide the necessary marine structures to develop new opportunities in the future.”
Support to Okeover Harbour Authority will improve the safety for winter moorage, expand the number of moorage spaces, and upgrade cargo handling capabilities.
“The breakwater expansion and access project for Okeover Harbour Authority will benefit aquaculture, tourism and the local economy through increased moorage space and enhanced access and protection from winter storms,” said Don Carto, Director, Okeover Harbour Authority.
The Government of Canada is providing $228,000 investment through the West Coast Community Adjustment Program (WestCCAP) to improve the competitiveness and sustainability of the tourism and shelfish aquaculture industry in Okeover Inlet.
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, is delivering this initiative on behalf of Western Economic Diversification Canada. The Government of Canada supports initiatives that combat challenges facing traditional industries, protect resources in affected areas in order to support the long-term success of resource-dependent communities.
Western Economic Diversification Canada 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 only) contact:
Jaime Burke
Manager, Communications
Western Economic Diversification Canada
Telephone: (604) 666-1318
Don Carto
Director
Okeover Harbour Authority
Telephone: (604) 483-6940
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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