People in Tobin Lake have a new water distribution system thanks to support from the Canada-Saskatchewan Infrastructure Program (CSIP).

Environment Minister Buckley Belanger, on behalf of Government Relations Minister Ron Osika, and Tobin Lake Mayor Bob Taylor today officially opened the water distribution centre in conjunction with the Resort Village of Tobin Lake's 30th anniversary celebration.

The federal and the provincial governments each provided $142,006 through CSIP, while the resort village contributed $142,008. The $426,020 water improvement project was announced in April 2002 and included drilling and development of a water well, installation of a pipeline, and construction of a water treatment plant with storage tank, distribution pumps and chlorinating equipment.

"The Canada-Saskatchewan Infrastructure Program has responded to Tobin Lake's need for clean water by investing in a new water treatment and distribution system," said Stephen Owen, Secretary of State (Western Economic Diversification) (Indian Affairs Northern Development). "The Government of Canada is committed to forging more partnerships like this one so we can make life better for Canadians in a practical way."

"The cooperation of the people of Tobin Lake, the federal government, and the provincial government has made this project possible," Minister Belanger said. "An abundant supply of safe water is essential in ensuring the sustainability of Saskatchewan communities and we are pleased to be a part of the team contributing to Saskatchewan's wide open future."

"Thanks to the Canada-Saskatchewan Infrastructure Program, the Resort Village of Tobin Lake will be able to provide quality drinking water to its citizens and visitors for many years to come," Mayor Bob Taylor said. "This new system will further enhance Tobin Lake's reputation as a first-rate tourist destination."

This is the third year of the five-year Canada-Saskatchewan Infrastructure Program that will see an investment of more than $170 million in federal, provincial and municipal funds in Saskatchewan municipalities. During the first three years of the program, more than $84 million in federal and provincial funds have been announced for 295 projects. The program provides up to two-thirds of the eligible costs associated with community projects. Communities provide the remaining minimum one-third of the project costs.

Other priorities under the program include local transportation infrastructure, cultural and recreational facilities, infrastructure supporting tourism, rural and remote telecommunications, high-speed Internet access for local public institutions, and affordable housing.

For additional information, contact:

Joanne Mysak
Western Economic Diversification
Canada
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
Phone: (306) 975-5942

Ann Anderson
Government Relations and Aboriginal Affairs
Regina, Saskatchewan
Phone: (306) 787-8890

Canada Infrastructure Program:
http://www.infrastructurecanada.gc.ca/ 

Saskatchewan Municipal Affairs:
http://www.municipal.gov.sk.ca/