June 13, 2013
Hope, British Columbia
Today, Mark Strahl, Member of Parliament for Chilliwack—Fraser Canyon, on behalf of the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification, announced support for the Shxw’owhámel First Nation under the Harper Government’s Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund (CIIF).
“Our Government is focused on what matters to Canadians – creating jobs and growth,” said MP Strahl. “Through the Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund, our Government continues to support communities across the country.”
The Harper Government’s investment of $57,550 will allow the Shxw’owhámel First Nation to convert their existing community workshop into a youth recreation centre. A new kitchen, washrooms and office space will be added to the facility which will provide a meeting place where the First Nation can offer important programs and resources for their youth.
“Shxw’owhámel is striving to improve the quality of life for all its members and there’s no better way to start than with our youth and children,” said Councillor Alfred James. “Since we are not within walking distance to any public facilities, our new Youth Centre will allow our children of all ages to have a place to call their own, a place they can gather in a positive way – their very own safe haven.”
In Economic Action Plan 2012, the Harper Government announced further support to help communities across the country modernize their infrastructure. Our Government committed $150 million over two years for the Fund. The Fund supports projects that look to improve existing community infrastructure accessible for use by the public, such as community centres, recreational buildings, local arenas, cultural and other community facilities.
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.
