Today, the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification, announced $56,000 in federal funding for Saanich’s G.R. Pearkes Recreation Centre under the Harper Government’s Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund (CIIF).
“Our Government is committed to creating jobs, growth and long-term prosperity in our communities,
" said Minister Yelich. “By improving facilities such as this, we are helping to boost economic activity and maintain a high quality of life for Canadians.
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The District of Saanich’s G.R. Pearkes Recreation Centre is home to the municipality's only ice rinks, along with a strength training centre, aerobic /dance studio, sport courts, library, and teen activity centre. Funding for the centre will help install a new energy-efficient lighting system and motion sensors in the Gold Rink, Green Rink and arena lobby areas.
"Partnerships like this one with the Federal Government, through Western Economic Diversification Canada (WD) make a positive impact in our community,
" said Saanich Mayor Frank Leonard. "With this support, the installation of cleaner and greener lighting technology allows The District of Saanich to significantly reduce the energy consumption at G.R. Pearkes and provide better arena experiences for all user groups.
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CIIF supports, on a cost-shared basis, repairs and improvements to existing community infrastructure accessible to the public. WD is delivering the Fund in Western Canada with an allocation of $46.2 million over two years.
Since 2006, the Harper Government, through WD, has invested in job-creating small and medium-sized businesses, aerospace, marine and defence industries, and supported innovative entrepreneurs in pursuing emerging markets. By continuing to promote new economic opportunities, WD is helping to create jobs, economic growth, and long-term prosperity
