Notes for an address by

The Honourable Lynne Yelich
Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification

Milestone Event

Corresponding Document: News Release

Check against delivery

Thank you, [emcee name].

Good morning, everyone.

It is a great pleasure to be here today in my riding on behalf of the Government of Canada and as Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification.

In August of 2009, I had the pleasure of participating in the initial funding announcement for this exciting project and I’m delighted to return for today’s grand opening of Viscount’s new archery facility.

Two years ago, this space was underutilized and inefficient. Today, your community has an upgraded, energy efficient facility, which fits your specific recreational needs. This project included the conversion of an unused curling rink into a new archery centre, and the installation of new lighting in the arena and archery centre to improve energy efficiency.

Our Government is proud to have supported this initiative with an investment of $8,750 through the Recreational Infrastructure Canada program, also known as RInC. As part of Canada’s Economic Action Plan, the Government of Canada invested $500 million to improve recreational infrastructure in communities across the country. This includes 718 RInC projects delivered by WD right here in Western Canada, including several other projects in this region such as upgrades to the arenas in Young, Watrous and Lanigan. Investments such as these have helped to create over 560,000 net new jobs since July 2009.

Our Government’s investment in improved recreational facilities helped to stimulate the economy, enhance local facilities and services, and contribute to the health and quality of life for communities across Canada.

Nearly three years ago, the world faced a financial crisis. Drawing on the values of the hard-working Canadians and firms that refused to let difficult times define them, Canada’s Economic Action Plan helped Canada emerge swiftly from the recession. Working closely with provinces, territories and communities, our Government moved quickly to deliver a timely and targeted stimulus program that created and protected jobs across the country. Hard work, determination and responsible choices allowed us to make these extraordinary investments during tough times.

Our Government is committed to ensuring that the stimulus program is completed and Canada returns to balanced budgets.

I want to thank the Village of Viscount and the Viscount Recreation Board for bringing this project to WD for consideration. The level of organization, planning and hard work displayed by everyone in the community will ensure that this new archery facility is a great success.
Our Government looks forward to working with provinces, municipalities, community groups and people like you, here in Viscount, to invest in a more prosperous future for all of us.

Together, we are building a stronger West for a stronger Canada.

Thank you!

Merci beaucoup!