The construction of a new provincial paint and body shop in Tignish will be a major benefit to West Prince, says Premier Robert Ghiz.
“By moving the body shop to its new location in Tignish we are bringing much-needed jobs to the community,” said Premier Ghiz. “Through the Rural Action Plan, this government is committed to improving the lives of all Islanders, regardless of what part of the Island they call home.”
Premier Ghiz, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure renewal Ron MacKinley and Minister of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Rural Development and Tignish-Palmer Road MLA Neil LeClair were on hand today for the official sod turning to mark the beginning of construction on the new building. The 8,000 square foot space will house six employees.
“For years our shop was located in leased space that was not entirely appropriate for the kind of work we do,” said Minister MacKinley. “This new building will be environmentally friendly and will serve as an excellent location for these operations.”
The move was announced by Premier Ghiz in February of this year. The building is expected to be complete by the spring of 2011. It replaces leased space in Milton.
“I can’t tell you how much these new jobs will mean to this community and the surrounding area,” said Minister LeClair. “It just goes to show how committed this government is to the continued growth of rural Prince Edward Island.”
The announcement is part of the provincial government’s Rural Action Plan which is aimed at helping rural communities continue to respond and adapt to new opportunities. One of the goals of the action plan is to increase investments in areas of greatest need in order to stimulate new growth and opportunity.