Rodney Weston, Member of Parliament for Saint John, on behalf of the Honourable Rob Moore, Minister of State (Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency), joined volunteers from the Saint John SPCA Animal Rescue Inc. and other community supporters today to announce funding for improvements to the Saint John Animal Shelter.
“Healthy and sustainable communities require solid infrastructure to ensure their future prosperity,” said MP Weston. “By making these investments in local infrastructure, our Government is helping to stimulate the economy and maintain a high quality of life for Saint John citizens and their families.”
The project involves interior and exterior improvements to the Saint John Animal Shelter. Work will include plumbing improvements as well as the installation of fixed equipment in the cat isolation and medical rooms, such as exam tables, cabinets, and a scale. Outside work involves the installation of fencing for the dog-park and kennel. In addition, improvements will be made to several outbuildings, including the installation of emergency lighting, ceiling fans, insulation, and an outdoor cat enclosure.
Overall, the improvements will enhance the shelter’s ability to provide vital animal control and rescue services for the community.
“The Saint John SPCA Animal Rescue is grateful for this support from ACOA which will help us with critical improvements and an expansion,” said Melody McElman, President Saint John SPCA. “The majority of the improvements will focus on a safe and clean environment for our animal areas because while these animals are under our care, their comfort and safety are paramount.”
The Government of Canada, through the Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund (CIIF) is investing $45,703 while the Saint John SPCA Animal Rescue Inc. is investing $20,500 and FidoCares is donating $13,703. A number of private companies are making in-kind donations including: Homestar Inc., $7,500; Maritime Fence $2,000 and MC Ventilation Ltd., $2,000.
The Government of Canada is building on recent actions to modernize Canada’s public infrastructure by committing $150 million over two years for the Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund to support repairs and improvements to existing community facilities.
The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) is delivering $16.6 million in CIIF investments across Atlantic Canada.
For information on ACOA’s programs, visit our website at http://www.acoa-apeca.gc.ca.
