DATE: June 24, 2008
FROM: OFFICE OF RICK NORLOCK MP NORTHUMBERLAND/QUINTE WEST

SUBJECT: Canada Day grants

Rick Norlock, Member of Parliament for Northumberland Quinte West is happy to announce seven grants to assist communities in their Canada Week celebrations.

Grants have been approved as follows: $3,800 Cobourg, $2,000 Trent Hills, $1,300 Warkworth Service Club for a celebration of National Aboriginal Day, $700 Brighton, $700 Grafton, $2,500 Quinte West Francophare for the celebration of St. Jean Baptiste Day, $500 Port Hope.

Mr. Norlock added, “It’s an honour to help these groups and communities celebrate our country’s birthday and I hope everyone in Northumberland Quinte West will take advantage of this opportunity to enjoy our annual birthday party.

For more information about this press release contact: Tom Rittwage, Executive Assistant, Office of Rick Norlock, MP: 613-483-8181, or Jim Lawrence, Communications, 613-397-1157

DATE: June 24, 2008
FROM: OFFICE OF RICK NORLOCK MP NORTHUMBERLAND/QUINTE WEST

SUBJECT: Species at risk grant

Rick Norlock, Member of Parliament for Northumberland Quinte West is happy to announce grants and contributions have been approved for projects to protect and preserve species at risk.

Alderville First Nations, Black Oak and Tallgrass Prairie Habitat Stewardship venture has been awarded $49,000 for this important project.For more information contact James Marsden, Chief, 905-352-2011

Lower Trent Region Conservation Authority has been awarded $29,000 for the Keating-Hoards Natural Habitat Areas Species at Rick Management Plan. For more information on the plan, contact Jim Kelleher, 613-394-3915 ext 212.

Mr. Norlock concluded by adding, “Protecting our environment and nature for future generations is our responsibility and your government holds this trust as a priority.”

For more information about this press release contact: Tom Rittwage, Executive Assistant, Office of Rick Norlock, MP: 613-483-8181, or Jim Lawrence, Communications, 613-397-1157

DATE: June 20, 2008
FROM: OFFICE OF RICK NORLOCK MP NORTHUMBERLAND/QUINTE WEST

SUBJECT: Norlock responds to proposed carbon tax

Today Rick Norlock, Member of Parliament for Northumberland Quinte West rose in the House of Commons to speak about the Liberal Party’s new carbon tax proposal and the overwhelming financial burden it will place on businesses and families.

Mr. Norlock said, “ Mr. Speaker, after finally getting the details of the Liberal leader’s claims that his plan is revenue neutral, it’s plain to see that this is impossible. The reason for this tax shaft is that the Liberal leader needed to find a way to pay for all his unbudgeted spending promises…and he’s doing it on the backs of the Canadian taxpayers. He plans to spend all the money he brings in: on programs, on special interests, on endless priorities.

“Canadians will feel the effects of this tax grab directly and indirectly. You cannot drive up the cost of transporting gas, groceries, and everything else without hurting consumers.

“You cannot prevent manufacturers, once taxed, from passing on their losses onto their customers.

“The only ‘green shift’ that would occur is the shifting of money out of Canadians’ wallets.”

Since becoming the government Mr. Norlock and his party have reduced taxes to Canadians by almost $200 billion and will continue to work hard for Canadians to ensure their hard earned dollars stay in their pockets.

For more information about this press release contact: Tom Rittwage, Executive Assistant, Office of Rick Norlock, MP: 613-483-8181, or Jim Lawrence, Communications, 613-397-1157

See also Video of Rick making these comments in house.

DATE: June 19, 2008
FROM: OFFICE OF RICK NORLOCK MP NORTHUMBERLAND/QUINTE WEST

SUBJECT: TOWN HALL MEETING at Baltimore Rec. Centre, Baltimore, June 28

Rick Norlock, Member of Parliament for Northumberland Quinte West invites citizens to attend a TOWN HALL MEETING on June 28, from 10 am to 11:30 am. The meeting is at the Baltimore Recreation Centre, 23 Community Centre Road, Baltimore.

Special guest for the meeting is Dr. Colin Carrie, MP for Oshawa. Dr. Carrie will discuss Bill C-51, which is legislation to amend the Food and Drugs Act to modernize the regulatory system for foods and therapeutic products, to strengthen the oversight of the benefits and risks of therapeutic products throughout their life cycle, to support efficient compliance and enforcement acts, and to enable a greater transparency and openness of the regulatory system.

This is an opportunity for people to make their opinions known to Rick Norlock and to Dr. Carrie. There will be a question and answer session following the meeting.

For more information call one of Rick’s offices. In Cobourg call 905-372-8757, in Trenton call 613-392-3382. Or use Rick’s toll free number 1-800-461-6742.

DATE: Jun 12, 2008
FROM: OFFICE OF RICK NORLOCK MP NORTHUMBERLAND/QUINTE WEST

Letter to the Editor

Dear Editor  
 
            On Wednesday, June 11, our Prime Minister, on behalf of all Canadians, made a full, formal apology to former students of Indian Residential Schools, their families, and the Aboriginal peoples of Canada.
            I am proud to be a part of a government that recognizes the injustices done to our Aboriginal peoples by this wrong and prejudicial policy of the government of the time, and has taken this opportunity to apologize and ask forgiveness for the cruel actions and personal heartbreak this policy caused to thousands of Aboriginal people across Canada. Removing and isolating children from the influence of their homes, families, traditions and cultures and attempting to assimilate them into the dominant culture was wrong.
            Yesterday’s apology reinforces the Government’s commitment to numerous other government initiatives designed to address the tragic legacy of Indian Residential Schools, notably the historic Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement and its components: a Common Experience Payment, an Independent Assessment Process, Commemoration Activities, measures to support healing, and the Indian Residential Schools Truth and Reconciliation Commission.
            It is my hope and belief these efforts, on behalf of all Canadians, will become a cornerstone of a new relationship between Aboriginal people and all Canadians: a relationship based on knowledge of our shared history, a respect for each other, and a desire to move forward together.
 
Yours truly
Rick Norlock
Member of Parliament
Northumberland Quinte West

DATE: Jun 10, 2008
FROM: OFFICE OF RICK NORLOCK MP NORTHUMBERLAND/QUINTE WEST

SUBJECT: Opposition parties vote to work less in House of Commons

Yesterday, in an unprecedented move, the federal opposition parties blocked the standard evening sittings of the House of Commons. This routine procedure, that was set out in the House standing orders, has never been blocked since it was introduced in 1987.

Rick Norlock, Member of Parliament for Northumberland Quinte West said today, “The government still has a long list of Bills we need to pass before the end of the spring sitting and this is just another attempt by the Opposition to obstruct and delay our legislative agenda. I believe this action on the part of the Liberal party is consistent with their practice of avoiding constructive action.

“The government and our fellow Canadians expect MPs to work hard to get things done. If Members of Parliament aren’t willing to do their work before a three month summer break, they should step aside and let those who take their responsibilities seriously do it.”

DATE: May 28, 2008
FROM: OFFICE OF RICK NORLOCK MP NORTHUMBERLAND/QUINTE WEST

SUBJECT: Advanced Wireless Services Spectrum Auction

On May 27, The Honourable Jim Prentice, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development launched the Advanced Wireless Services (AWS) Spectrum Auction. Mr. Prentice said, "Canadian consumers are paying too much for wireless services compared to consumers in other countries. Today, this government is changing that.

"Our government is putting consumers first by opening up Canada’s wireless industry to more competition. More competition should mean lower prices, better service, and more choice for consumers."

The auction will unfold over many scheduled rounds using a secure online bidding system. Successive rounds will be held until a cessation of all biding activity, at which time the auction will close.

Technical questions should be forwarded to Industry Canada’s media relations office at: 613-943-2502.

Rick Norlock, Member of Parliament for Northumberland Quinte West said, “As a member of the Eastern Ontario Caucus I welcome this auction as we have been working to extend broadband service throughout eastern Ontario. By favouring competition and encouraging further innovation in the industry, our government is also giving Canadian businesses the competitive edge they need in today’s difficult marketplace."

DATE: May 26, 2008
FROM: OFFICE OF RICK NORLOCK MP NORTHUMBERLAND/QUINTE WEST

SUBJECT: Port Hope Jazz Festival receives $25,000

Rick Norlock, Member of Parliament for Northumberland Quinte West said last week, he was pleased to present organizers of the All Canadian Jazz Festival with a cheque for $25,000 under the Arts Presentation Canada Program, on behalf of Jim Abbot Parliamentary Secretary to the Honourable Josee Verner, Minister of Canadian Heritage, Status of Women and Official Languages.

Port Hope Jazz Inc applied for this grant and the Government of Canada was pleased to contribute to this important cultural event in Port Hope. This festival marks the 6th year the annual 3-Day All Canadian Jazz Festival has been presented. Over the three days the festival ACJF presented an exclusively Canadian roster of 16 jazz artists performing genres of jazz ranging from swing and big band to Afro-Cuban and other Latin American styles. The concerts took place in the Port Hope Memorial Park and four community venues in the Town.

Mr. Norlock said, following the cheque presentation, “This is a very worthwhile investment on the part of the federal Government as the Festival also promotes young musicians and community participation through all venues of the three days, including a workshop and the Young Jazz Showcases.”

DATE: May 23, 2008
FROM: OFFICE OF RICK NORLOCK MP NORTHUMBERLAND/QUINTE WEST

SUBJECT: GOVERNMENT OF CANADA INVESTS IN GRADE CROSSING IMPROVEMENTS IN NORTHUMBERLAND QUINTE WEST DURING RAIL SAFETY WEEK

In celebration of Rail Safety Week, Rick Norlock, Member of Parliament for Northumberland Quinte West today announced on behalf of the Honourable Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, that the Government of Canada will work to improve safety at the George St. railway crossing in Cobourg.

“I am very pleased that Transport Canada and the Town of Cobourg are working together to enhance safety measures at the George St. crossing here in Cobourg”, Rick Norlock said. “Pedestrian and vehicular safety are paramount at railway crossings, and these funds will help solidify such safety measures at this location.” The funding will be used to the relocate sidewalk, close entrance, and construct curbs.

Transport Canada works closely with railway companies and communities across the country to identify grade crossings that require safety improvements. This announcement will provide $20 800 in funding for George St. railway crossing in Cobourg. Under the department’s Grade Crossing Improvement Program, eligible railway crossings are either upgraded, relocated or closed, based on an assessment of factors such as traffic volume and accident history. Improvements may include installing flashing lights and gates, adding gates or extra lights to existing systems, linking crossing signals to nearby traffic lights, modifying operating circuits, or adding new circuits or timing devices. The department finances up to 80 per cent of the total cost of the improvements, with the balance provided by the railways, municipalities or provinces.

“Improving safety at crossings is a priority for this government,” said Minister Cannon. “Accident rates and crossing fatalities have steadily declined in recent years, and this funding will allow us to continue to work with rail companies and communities to increase the safety of rail crossings for motorists and pedestrians throughout Canada.”

Transport Canada supports other initiatives to improve safety at railway crossings, such as Operation Lifesaver. This public education program run by the Railway Association of Canada has promoted safety at railway crossings since 1981 by providing awareness briefings to schools and communities, developing and promoting videos, and sponsoring events.

DATE: May 21, 2008
FROM: OFFICE OF RICK NORLOCK MP NORTHUMBERLAND/QUINTE WEST

SUBJECT: MAJOR INVESTMENT IN MUNICIPALITY OF QUINTE WEST

MP Rick Norlock delivers major investment for Trent-Severn Waterway

DATE: May 20, 2008
FROM: OFFICE OF RICK NORLOCK MP NORTHUMBERLAND/QUINTE WEST

SUBJECT: Government of Canada Confirms its Commitment to Clean Up Port Hope

PORT HOPE - The Government of Canada has confirmed its ongoing support for the Port Hope Area Initiative (PHAI) to clean-up local low-level radioactive wastes. Today, Rick Norlock, Member of Parliament for Northumberland - Quinte West, speaking on behalf of The Honourable Gary Lunn, Minister of Natural Resources, announced that the federal government has approved another $30 million in funding to move the PHAI projects forward.

DATE: May 16, 2008
FROM: OFFICE OF RICK NORLOCK MP NORTHUMBERLAND/QUINTE WEST

SUBJECT: Trent Severn Caucus inaugral meeting

Rick Norlock, Member of Parliament for Northumberland Quinte West, along with the other members of the newly formed Trent Severn Caucus met for the first time Wednesday, May 14 at Queen’s Park in Toronto.

The group was created in response to the recently released report by the panel reviewing the future of the Trent Severn Waterway entitled “It’s All About the Water.”
In a co-operative effort to promote this report, the federal and provincial members of parliament who represent the people and communities along the waterway have agreed to form a new Trent Severn Caucus.

• Rick Norlock (MP-Con) and Lou Rinaldi (MPP-Lib) from Northumberland Quinte West;
• Dean Del Mastro (MP-Con) and Jeff Leal (MPP-Lib) from Peterborough;
• Barry Devolin (MP-Con) and Laurie Scott (MPP-PC) from Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock, and
• Bruce Stanton (MP-Con) and Garfield Dunlop (MPP-PC) from Simcoe North.

The first decision made by Trent Severn Caucus members was to select Barry Devolin(MP-Con) and Jeff Leal (MPP –Lib) as co-chairs to lead this effort.

Their second decision was to direct the co-chairs to meet as soon as possible with relevant federal and provincial ministers to explain why the Trent Severn Caucus wants to see the report’s recommendations implemented.

These ministers include the Honourable John Baird, federal Minister of the Environment and Minister Responsible for Parks Canada, the Honourable Gary Lunn, federal Minister of Natural Resources, the Honourable Donna Cansfield, Ontario’s Minister of Natural Resources and the Honourable Peter Fonseca, Ontario’s Minister of Tourism.

Mr. Norlock said, “I am very pleased that each member agreed that, as political leaders, we are going to work together to ensure this historical landmark gets the special care it deserves and is re-established as a world class destination for recreational boaters and a model of environmental sustainability.”

DATE: May 16, 2008
FROM: OFFICE OF RICK NORLOCK MP NORTHUMBERLAND/QUINTE WEST
SUBJECT: Government strengthens firearms program

On Wednesday, May 14, Stockwell Day, Minister of Public Safety announced three major changes to the Canadian Firearms Program designed to strengthen public safety, facilitate compliance with the Firearms Act, and enable previously licenced individuals to come back into compliance with the law.

These changes will: extend the current fee waiver for licence renewal or upgrade; continue the amnesty for individuals with expired licences or people in possession of unregistered non-restricted firearms who are taking steps to bring themselves into compliance with the law; and enable eligible persons with expired POLs to apply for a new one within one year.

Since 2004, more than 100,000 Possession-Only Licences (POL) have expired. Under regulations enacted by the previous Liberal government, they were not renewable. Our government has emended the Firearms Licences Regulations to enable eligible persons whose POLs have expired to apply for a new one until May 16, 2009.

The three measures (amnesty, fee waiver, and the ability to apply for a new POL) are complementary and will be in effect until May 16, 2009.

Rick Norlock, Member of Parliament for Northumberland Quinte West said, “Our government is focusing efforts on combating the criminal use of firearms and on support gun control measures that work.

“This includes introducing legislation to repeal the requirements to register long-guns, reducing administrative requirements for law abiding firearms owners, committing $14.2 million over two years to enhance the screening of 20,000 new firearms licence applicants each year in order to prevent firearms from ending up in the wrong hands, and enacting the Tackling Violent Crime Act which increases mandatory jail sentences for serious and repeat firearm offenders and provides tougher bail rules for serious weapons-related offences. These new legislative measures came into force on May 1, 2008.”

DATE: May 8, 2008
FROM: OFFICE OF RICK NORLOCK MP NORTHUMBERLAND/QUINTE WEST
SUBJECT: Norlock part of Trent-Severn Caucus

Rick Norlock, Member of Parliament for Northumberland Quinte West said today that he is pleased to sit on the new Trent-Severn Caucus.

In a co-operative effort to implement the recent study, “It’s all about the water”, which was released a week ago in Peterborough, the federal and provincial members of parliament who represent the people and communities along the waterway have agreed to form a new Trent-Severn Caucus.

Members of the caucus include: Rick Norlock and Lou Rinaldi MPP-Lib from Northumberland Quinte West, Dean Del Mastro MP-Con. And Jeff Leal MPP-Lib from Peterborough, Barry Devolin MP-Con and Laurie Scott MPP-PC from Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock, and Bruce Stanton MP-Con and Garfield Dunlop MPP-PC from Simcoe North.

The first decision made by the caucus was to select Barry Devolin and Jeff Leal as co-chairs to lead this effort. The second decision was to meet immediately to develop an action plan. This meeting will be held in Toronto on May 13.

The Trent-Severn Caucus will focus on conditions and issues along the waterway.

Mr. Norlock said, “We recognize we are fortunate, compared to other caucuses, because we have a fresh and detailed blueprint, provided by the recent report “It’s all about the water” on which to focus our efforts. Let me assure you this caucus is determined to ensure this report is acted upon with the full cooperation of the federal and provincial governments.”

DATE: May 6, 2008
FROM: OFFICE OF RICK NORLOCK MP NORTHUMBERLAND/QUINTE WEST
SUBJECT: National hunting, trapping, and fishing heritage day

Rick Norlock, Member of Parliament for Northumberland Quinte West has made a proposal that will result in a motion to be raised and debated in the House of  Commons. The motion will state that, “in the opinion of the House, the government should designate the 23rd day of September as National Hunting, Trapping, and Fishing Heritage Day.”

Mr. Norlock explained, “This day would be in recognition of the important contributions of Canada’s hunters, anglers, and trappers who made the development of our country a reality by mapping and traversing the prairie, forests, streams, and rivers from coast to coast; and in recognition of the important part they play in the sustainability of ecosystems and in the economy of the country.

“This Day would also support those native hunters and trappers who maintain our sovereignty in the Arctic with their presence in our far northern territories.

“The Day would also match the National Hunting and Fishing Day observed on September 23 by our neighbours, the United States.”

The next step in proclaiming this national day will be when it is moved and debated in the House of Commons.

Mr. Norlock would appreciate support for this motion from those who agree that hunting, fishing, and trapping should be recognized for their important contributions to the understanding, conservation, restoration and management of Canada’s outdoor heritage. Mr. Norlock can be reached for comment and support at www.ricknorlock.ca or Norlock.R@parl.gc.ca or by mail at Rick Norlock,MP, 747 Confederation Building, Ottawa, Ontario, K1A 0A6.

DATE: May 5, 2008
FROM: OFFICE OF RICK NORLOCK MP NORTHUMBERLAND/QUINTE WEST
SUBJECT: MAJOR INVESTMENT IN MUNICIPALITY OF TRENT HILLS

MP Rick Norlock delivers major investment for Trent-Severn Waterway

In response to the report on the future and potential of the Trent-Severn Waterway, MP Rick Norlock, and the Government of Canada, took immediate action and announced an investment of $63 million over the next five years in capital improvements to the Trent-Severn Waterway watercourse.

The Honourable Lawrence Cannon Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities announced today the Government of Canada is conducting a strategic review of the Canada Post Corporation.

The purpose of the review is to take a strategic view of the Corporation. With changes in technology, such as personal email and Internet use, traditional mail volumes have dropped across Canada presenting Canada Post with new challenges. The government wants to make certain Canada Post has the tools and means to service Canadians in the 21 Century.

In order to conduct the review a three-member External Advisory Panel has been established. Chair of the Panel is Dr. Robert Campbell, President and Vice-Chair of Mount Allison University, the other members are: Mrs. Nicole Beaudoin, President and CEO of the Quebec Business Women’s Network, and Mr. Daniel H. Badger former Deputy Minister of Alberta Municipal Affairs and Housing. The Panel’s report is due to Minister Cannon in December 2008.

The Panel will consult a wide range of stakeholders such as Canada Post and their unions, customers, competitors, and federal departments and agencies. As well the Panel will welcome input from the general public, who are invited to write submissions for their consideration. Information is available on the Canada Post Corporation Strategic Review website at www.cpcstategicreview.gc.ca.

In December 2006 the Government of Canada issued a directive to Canada Post requiring the Corporation to implement an operational plan to restore and maintain rural mail delivery. Canada Post has made great strides in this area and has recently completed a review of the approximately 20,000 rural mailboxes that were subject to health and safety complaints and they are in the process of assessing all 843,000 rural mailboxes across the country. This assessment will continue during the Review.

Rick Norlock, Member of Parliament for Northumberland Quinte West said, “We want to assure Canadians this Review is intended to modernize the operation in order to serve Canadians better. Canada Post will remain a Crown Corporation following the Review.”

On Friday, April 18, Health Minister Tony Clement announced that the government of Canada would take action on Bisphenol A, (BPA) which has been labeled as “toxic” under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act.

Mr. Clement said, “The health and safety of Canadians is a top priority for our Government. We are the first country in the world to take action on BPA. On April 8 Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced that this government will boost protection for Canadian consumers with a tough and comprehensive overhaul of food and safety laws.

“Our science is telling us that the general public is not at risk because health effects have only been seen in early development – the focus should be on newborns and infants.

“During the 60 day consultation period following this announcement, Health Canada will consider more science concerning BPA. If no new information comes forward to change the position of Health Canada, it is our intention to ban the importation, sale, and advertising of BPA baby bottles. Based on our science the only concern we have is on newborns and infants. BPA can be used safely in products, such as sports equipment and adhesives, but as far as baby bottles are concerned, we are being cautious and increasing the margin of safety.”

Rick Norlock, Member of Parliament for Northumberland Quinte West said today, “Science indicates that plastic baby bottles and the lining of cans of baby formula contain BPA. The bottles are the main area of concern but there are practical steps, I’m told, that parents can take to reduce exposure and minimize risk. The BPA in baby bottles leaches out most when hot/boiling water is added. We are advising parents to be cautious and take extra protection to reduce exposure by using glass bottles, bottles with disposable liners, or BPA-free plastic bottles.”

Rick Norlock, Member of Parliament for Northumberland Quinte West said today, “I am happy to announce that local hog producers can apply for compensation under the Cull Breeding Swine Program, as of April 14, 2008. That’s when the $50 Million program, funded by Agriculture and Agri-Foods Canada and delivered by the Canadian Pork Council, will begin accepting applications.”

The Cull Breeding Swine Program is designed to assist the industry restructure by helping the reduction of Canada’s swine breeding herd (sows, boars, and pregnant gilts) by approximately 10%.

Qualifying producers, subject to the application approval, will receive $225 per breeding swine culled after April 14. Reimbursement will be made for costs of slaughter and carcass disposal. As well, a similar payment per breeding swine, less the selling price, will be available for approved producers who sold animals from November 1, 2007 until April 13, 2008. (Receipts and supporting documents required.)

President of the Canadian Pork Council, Clare Schlegal, said, “The timing is critical for this strategic support from the federal government. Our industry is in dire straits and this initiative is a good place to start on the road towards a healthier, competitive Canadian swine industry.”

Application for the Cull Breeding Swine Program (and all required supporting documents and all other information) will be available as of April 14 on the Canadian Pork Council website: www.cpc-ccp.com . Producers can also contact their provincial pork producer association for copies of the application. As of April 14, a toll-free phone number: 1-877-655-2567 will be staffed to answer any questions.

Mr. Norlock concluded, “The federal government is making these funds available to hog producers in order to help deliver solutions at the farm gate. The industry told us they were willing to adapt to current market situation, but producers needed help to make the changes to their operations. We are working hard to bring the sector into line with market realities and ensure a long-term viability.”

Rick Norlock, Member of Parliament for Northumberland Quinte West on behalf of the Honourable Monte Solberg, Minister of Human Resources and Social Development and the Honourable Marjory LeBreton, Leader of the Government in the Senate and Secretary of State (Seniors) today congratulated the Victoria Order of Nurses as being selected to receive a $10,000 grant under the New Horizons for Seniors Program.

The grant to the VON in Hastings, Northumberland, and Prince Edward counties is made in response to a request for funding for equipment replacement at their various offices.

Mr. Norlock noted that the Government of Canada is also acting to address the needs of Canada’s seniors through the introduction of a series of important measures that include: establishing the National Seniors’ Council to advise the government on seniors’ issues; enabling a 1.6 million low-income seniors to benefit from increased benefits from under the Guaranteed Income Supplement; providing more than $1 Billion in tax relief to seniors in Budget 2007; and raising the amount seniors can claim under the age credit on their tax returns for 2007.

Since its launch the NHSP has funded more than 2,600 projects across Canada, inspiring seniors to bring their leadership, energy, and skills to projects across the country that benefit our communities.

"In Budget 2007, the government announced the creation of the Enabling Accessibility Fund in the amount of $45 Million to be accessed over three years.

"The first call for proposals, to be funded under this program, opened on April 1, 2008 and will close April 30, 2008. Approved projects will have strong ties to, and support from, the communities they serve and must demonstrate improvements in accessibility for people with disabilities.

"Whether it’s through funding a world-class abilities centre, building a ramp on a church, modifying vehicles, or making information and communication technology more accessible by removing barriers, we can improve accessibility in our neighbourhoods and across the country."

Organizations that are eligible for funding under the program include, non-governmental organizations such as community-based groups and non-profit organizations, public sector organizations such as small municipalities with a population of under 250,000 (as per the latest census data), small private-sector organizations with fewer than 50 employees and under $5 Million in gross revenue per year, provincial, territorial, and Aboriginal governments.

For more information about the fund, visit www.hrsdc-rhdsc.gc.ca or call 1-800-O-Canada. For TTY service call 1-800-926-9105.

Mr. Norlock concluded by adding, "Canada is not fully benefiting from the employment potential, skills, and talents of those with disabilities. And people with disabilities are not always living to their fullest potential. By addressing the accessibility issues that people with disabilities often cite, we are helping them participate socially and economically in their communities."