Investments by the provincial government and community organizations of more than $350,000 in seven projects in west Prince will help contribute to social and economic development, says Fisheries, Aquaculture and Rural Development Minister Neil LeClair.
“One of the most important factors that contributes to the growth and development of communities, is meeting its infrastructure needs,” said Mr. LeClair. “Under the Rural Action Plan, the provincial government is committed to supporting rural communities and strengthening the quality of life of rural residents.”
Mr. LeClair today announced, at the fire hall in Tignish, that seven projects in the west Prince area will receive funding under the Island Community Fund. The Tignish fire department will receive $100,000 from the Island Community Fund towards the purchase of safety equipment. The total cost of the project is $175,000.
The Village of St. Louis will receive $39,000 to upgrade its festival grounds. The community will contribute $14,107.
A project, with a total cost of $11,000, will upgrade heating, lighting and other facilities at the library in Alberton. The Island Community Fund is contributing $8,000.
The Western Curling Club has been given $13,902 towards a $15,171 upgrade.
The Elmsdale Community Centre will be expanded at a total cost of $68,780. The Island Community Fund is contributing $23,000 with the balance coming from Skills PEI and the community centre.
Miminegash Women in Support of Fishing is receiving $6,300 from the Island Community Fund to install kitchen equipment. The total cost of that project is $8,417.
The Island Community Fund will contribute $23,456 to the Alberton Fire Department as part of a $31,274 project to purchase fire safety equipment for its volunteers.
“I want to commend the sponsors of these projects for their hard work on behalf of their respective communities,” said Mr. LeClair. “We are pleased to partner with them to carry out these much-needed projects that contribute to the safety, enjoyment and growth of these communities.”
The Island Community Fund is a six year, $27.5 million program to address infrastructure needs in rural communities. It is part of the provincial government’s rural development strategy.