Government of Canada Invests in Membertou Community Project

Press Release –

September 12, 2014 – Membertou, NS – Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada

The Honourable Bernard Valcourt, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, and the Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, on behalf of the Honourable Rob Moore, Minister of State (Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency), today announced federal government support for the Membertou Sports and Wellness Center.

The Center will help maintain a high quality of life for everyone living in the community by providing a space for everyone to come together for tournaments, trade shows and recreation.

In addition to the direct rental revenue streams that are projected for the facility, economic spin-offs include close to 30 jobs during the construction phase alone, increased traffic to the community, and spin-off benefits for local companies.

Quick facts

• The federal government will be contributing $6 million through Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada (AANDC) and the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA).
• The total cost of the project is estimated at $18.1 million. The facility will include two NHL size ice surfaces, a sports retail shop, concessions, athletic space and other multi-purpose space.

Quotes

“Our Government is committed to supporting local initiatives that bring jobs, growth and economic prosperity to the community. By investing in community facilities in Cape Breton, we are helping to improve the quality of life for residents, boost local economic activity and create jobs.”

– The Honorable Bernard Valcourt
Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development

“Our Government is committed to promoting the health and prosperity of communities across Canada and Atlantic Canada. We are committed to making strategic investments to create the right conditions to improve the quality of life and well-being of First Nation communities.”

– The Honourable Peter MacKay
Regional Minister for Nova Scotia, on behalf of the Honourable Rob Moore, Minister of State (ACOA)

“The Membertou Sport and Wellness Centre is a critical piece of infrastructure for our community and the greater Cape Breton Regional Municipality. We continuously strive to create healthier lifestyles for our community members so we see the sport and wellness centre as a step in the right direction. We are very pleased to hear that the federal government sees the benefits this project brings to our community as well, and thank them for their generous contribution.”

– Chief Terrance Paul
Membertou First Nation

Associated links

• Membertou First Nation (community website)
• Membertou First Nation (community profile)
• Membertou First Nation, Nova Scotia: An ISO-certified community

Contacts

Andrea Richer
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development
819-997-0002

Media Relations
Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada
819-953-1160

Alex Smith
Director, Communications and Outreach
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
902-426-9417 / 902-830-3839 (cell)

Clarissa Lamb
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Justice
613-992-4621

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