The Island Community Fund is partnering with three organizations in the Tignish area on projects with total expenditures of close to $1.5 million, says Fisheries, Aquaculture and Rural Development Minister Neil LeClair. The projects were announced during a cabinet tour of the area on Tuesday.
“The Island Community Fund is aimed at supporting projects to strengthen economic and social opportunities in rural Prince Edward Island,” said Mr. LeClair. “I am pleased that the department has partnered with local groups in the Tignish area to undertake these exciting new initiatives that will provide lasting benefits for area residents.”
Mr. LeClair said the projects are being carried out as part of the provincial government’s Rural Development Strategy.
The Tignish Community Centre will upgrade its facilities with a total expenditure of $57,740. The Island Community Fund will contribute $43,305.
The Tignish Health Co-operative is installing a new generator, and upgrading its heating and filing systems at a total cost of $54,590, with $40,943 coming from the Island Community Fund.
The largest project will see an expansion of 20 beds to the Tignish Seniors Home Care Co-operative. The total cost of the project is $1,323,500. The Island Community Fund is contributing $100,000.
In addition to the projects that were announced, cabinet toured Miminegash harbour, Maritime Sea Products moss plant, North Atlantic Organics and Royal Star Foods, the largest employer in the west Prince area.
“I congratulate the organizers of these projects and wish them every success,” said Mr. LeClair. “The provincial government has made a strong commitment to support development in rural communities across Prince Edward Island.”
The Island Community Fund is a six-year, $27.5 million program to address infrastructure needs in local communities.