Mr. Joe McGuire, MP for Egmont, on behalf of the Honourable Pierre S. Pettigrew, Minister of Human Resources Development Canada, and the Honourable Fred J. Mifflin, Minister of Veterans Affairs and the Secretary of State for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, along with the Honourable Don MacKinnon, Minister of Development, today announced funding in the amount of $186,667 for the Silver Fox Curling and Yacht Club in Summerside, Prince Edward Island.
The Silver Fox Club is undergoing a $605,555 expansion and renovation which will see it grow in both size and capacity. Renovations to the club, which are expected to be complete by the end of January, will result in a larger visitors lounge and waiting room as well as expanded washroom, laundry and docking facilities.
This project has been identified as a priority for economic development and supports the Government of Canada's Jobs Strategy. It will help to create five full-time, one part-time and two seasonal jobs, along with various spin-offs to the community. "There has been a notable increase in marine visitations by tourists over the last few years and this project will ensure that this continues," said Joe McGuire. "Projects such as this one are great for Summerside. They show what we can accomplish when we work together as partners."
The renovations will help the Silver Fox meet the needs of its growing number of visitors, ensuring that they continue to visit Summerside and other parts of Prince Edward Island. The club is also an important community facility and will now be better able to meet local needs.
"This facility is an asset to the community and has the potential to become a significant draw for recreational boaters," said the Minister MacKinnon. "The operators of this club have recognized that fact and should be congratulated for their efforts in working to take advantage of a wonderful opportunity."
"During the yachting and boating season, the Silver Fox sees about 2,000 visitors and has the potential to increase that number with these improvements," said Carson Ricketts. "Renovations which will see the club grow by over 3,000 square feet will help us to better meet the needs of visitors and Summerside residents alike."
Funding assistance for this project has been provided by the Government of Canada and the provincial Department of Development. The Government of Canada is participating with a contribution of $106,000 through Human Resources Development Canada's Transitional Job Fund and the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency is providing a loan of $55,000 through the Business Development Program. An additional $25,667 has also been provided through the Canada-Prince Edward Island Regional Economic Development Agreement which is co-managed by ACOA and the Department of Development.
HRDC's Transitional Jobs Fund and ACOA's Business Development Program both support the Government of Canada's Jobs Strategy. These programs are designed to promote economic growth and employment in areas of high unemployment. They are also designed to encourage partnership initiatives with other levels of government, the private sector and community groups.