Canim Lake, BC – Cathy McLeod, Member of Parliament for Kamloops-Thompson-Cariboo, on behalf of the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification, announced today federal funding to strengthen economic opportunities for the Canim Lake Indian Band. Funding of $195,822 was provided under the Recreational Infrastructure Canada (RInC) program, a major job-creating investment from Canada’s Economic Action Plan.

“Our Government’s investment in the Recreational Infrastructure Canada program is encouraging greater participation in physical education and the use of recreational facilities,” said McLeod. “The expansion of the gymnasium will bring together families, friends and neighbours to learn new skills, exchange ideas, get fit and healthy, and have fun.”

The RInC funding will expand the gymnasium by 1200 square feet by adding a fitness area, children’s play area, storage area, reception and two washrooms.

“Receiving funding for the addition of a fitness area allows Canim Lake Band to achieve one of its many goals in offering youth and all community members’ access to healthier lifestyle choices.  The Canim Lake Band staff are dedicated to offering better future opportunities for its youth in both recreation and education programs.  We appreciate the support from the government in helping the Canim Lake Band reach this goal,” stated Chief Mike Archie. 

The RInC program will invest $500 million in recreational facilities across Canada over a two-year period. It will provide a temporary economic stimulus that will help reduce the impacts of the global recession while renewing, upgrading and expanding recreational infrastructure in Canadian communities.

RInC is part of Canada’s Economic Action Plan, the Government of Canada’s multi-faceted stimulus plan that will ensure a quick recovery from the current economic downturn. Western Economic Diversification Canada is delivering the initiative in the four western provinces.

For information on Canada’s Economic Action Plan, please visit www.actionplan.gc.ca