Rural Islanders are already benefiting from the Rural Action Plan in many ways, says Fisheries, Aquaculture and Rural Development Minister Neil LeClair.
“I am proud of the progress that has been achieved since the Rural Action Plan was initiated just over one year ago,” said Mr. LeClair. “As a government, we look forward to working with rural businesses, organizations and residents to build on the progress that has been achieved.”
The Rural Action Plan sets out seven broad goals and 40 specific actions aimed at the development needs of rural communities. Of the 40 actions, 30 have already been implemented or are underway, while measures are being developed to implement the remaining 10.
Mr. LeClair released a progress report highlighting some of the actions achieved to date. These include the establishment of rural broadband to all areas of the province, opening of the first Rural Action Centre, new investments in the primary industries, establishment of the Culinary Alliance to promote tourism and local food products and expansion of the provincial watershed program. To date, more than $11 million has been approved under the Island Community Fund to support 165 projects across the province.
Over $4 million has supported 350 companies, creating 450 jobs under the Rural Jobs Initiative.
As part of the rural development strategy, the Department of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Rural Development was re-located to Montague, the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development to Summerside and the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal’s body and paint shop and financial administration section to Tignish.
“The Rural Action Plan brings a government-wide focus to promote jobs and growth in rural communities and strengthen the quality of life of rural residents,” said Mr. LeClair. “It is the first time that the future of rural communities is being addressed by government in a comprehensive manner.”
Copies of the progress report are available at Island Information Service or online at gov.pe.ca/ruralactionplan.