CANADA'S ECONOMIC ACTION PLAN DELIVERS HOUSING-RELATED INFRASTRUCTURE LOAN FOR THE TOWNSHIP OF CRAMAHE
Sept 25, 2009
Colborne, Ontario. The Government of Canada announced today that the Township of Cramahe has been approved for an infrastructure loan as part of Canada's Economic Action Plan.
The announcement was made by the Rick Norlock, Member of Parliament for Northumberland-Quinte West, on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development Canada and Minister Responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC).
The Township of Cramahe has been approved for more than $1.3 million in a low-cost loan from CMHC's Municipal Infrastructure Lending Program (MILP) for the expansion of the existing wastewater treatment system in the community of Colborne.
"Our Government understands the importance of infrastructure in maintaining strong and prosperous communities," said MP Norlock. "This program is opening the door for municipalities of all sizes to meet their housing-related infrastructure needs and create jobs. It's good news not only for the Township of Cramahe and the Village of Colborne, but also for Ontario."
Canada's Economic Action Plan provides up to $2 billion in direct low-cost loans to municipalities, over two years, for housing-related infrastructure projects through the MILP.
Municipal infrastructure loans are available to any municipality in Canada and will provide a new source of funds for municipalities to invest in housing-related infrastructure projects. These low-cost loans can also be used by municipalities to fund their contribution to cost-shared federal infrastructure programming.
"Receiving financing from CMHC for the Colborne Wastewater Treatment Plant upgrades is an extremely important part of the success and implementation of this project in that it provides an affordable option for the municipality to contribute our 1/3 of the $6.3 million dollar project," stated Marc Coombs, Mayor of Cramahe Township. "The upgrades to the plant will ensure the future sustainability of the Township of Cramahe as a strong community, with a clean and healthy environment and a strong economy."
Eligible projects include infrastructure related to housing services such as water, power generation and waste services, as well as local transportation infrastructure within and into residential areas, such as roads, sidewalks, lighting and green space.
As Canada's national housing agency, CMHC draws on more than 60 years of experience to help Canadians access a variety of quality, environmentally sustainable, and affordable homes - homes that will continue to create vibrant and healthy communities and cities across the country.
More information on this and other measures in Canada's Economic Action Plan, the federal government's plan to stimulate the economy and protect those hit hardest by the global recession, can be found at: www.actionplan.gc.ca.
More information, including applications forms, for municipalities wishing to apply for loans can be found at: www.cmhc.ca/housingactionplan.gc.ca.
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Media inquiries:
Michelle Bakos
Office of the Honourable Diane Finley
Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development Canada
819-994-2482
Charles Sauriol
CMHC Media Relations
613-748-2799
Erica Meekes
Executive Assistant
Rick Norlock, MP
Northumberland Quinte West
(613) 483-8181
GOVERNMENT OF CANADA CREATES JOBS THROUGH DEFENCE INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS AT 8 WING TRENTON
September 23, 2009
8 WING TRENTON, Ont. - The Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence and Minister for the Atlantic Gateway, yesterday announced six defence infrastructure investments for 8 Wing Trenton.
These projects, a planned investment of approximately $334 million, will generate local economic benefits and could create approximately 1800 direct employment opportunities over the course of the work.
"These investments reinforce this Governments commitment to providing the Canadian Forces with the tools and training our men and women need to carry out work as effectively as possible," said Minister MacKay. "The jobs created by these projects will provide substantial economic benefits for the local economy."
"I am very pleased that our Government is continuing to contribute to our local community of Quinte West," said Rick Norlock, "Not only will this investment enhance the operational abilities of the Canadian Forces, but it will also strengthen our local economy during this economic downturn, and bring jobs back to Quinte West."
The projects include the construction of a maintenance hangar for the new C-17 Globemasters, the construction of a new air mobility and training centre, the construction of a new electrical/mechanical engineering and transportation garage, the construction of a new refinishing facility for the Aerospace and Telecommunications Engineering Support Squadron (ATESS), the construction of a training accommodation building, and the construction of materiel distribution centre.
The Government of Canada conduct open, fair and transparent competitive processes in order to award the contracts for construction of the various projects at 8 Wing Trenton.
In line with Canada First Defence Strategy, there is a need to update and replace dated Defence infrastructure to help produce a first-class, modern military that is ready to take on the challenges of the 21st century. The Government's significant investments in defence infrastructure provide economic benefits to communities across Canada.
DND holds a large number of properties all across the country to support the Canadian Forces, including some 21,000 buildings, 2.25 million hectares of land, 5,500 km of roads, and 3,000 km of water, storm and sewer pipes.
A background document discussing Trenton infrastructure projects in further detail is available here.
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Contact:
Erica Meekes
Executive Assistant
Office of Rick Norlock M.P.
Northumberland Quinte West
613-483-8181
GOVERNMENT OF CANADA SUPPORTS SMALL BUSINESSES IN SOUTHERN ONTARIO THROUGH CANADA'S ECONOMIC ACTION PLAN
Sept 11, 2009
Cobourg, Ontario. Rick Norlock, Member of Parliament for Northumberland Quinte West, on behalf of the Honourable Gary Goodyear, Minister of State (Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario [FedDev Ontario]), today announced a Government of Canada investment in local Community Futures Development Corporations (CFDCs) to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) - key drivers of economic activity in Southern Ontario.
Southern Ontario's 37 CFDCs will receive $30 million from the Community Adjustment Fund (CAF) in 2009-2010. This funding is part of the $350 million that the CAF will receive over two years for projects in Ontario. The new measures will increase access to capital and business support for rural SMEs by enhancing products and services offered by Ontario CFDCs.
The Northumberland CFDC will receive $575, 070. "Northumberland CFDC continues to be a great way to invest in our local community. They provide microeconomic stimulus through the direction of a community level board of directors in touch with our local business needs," said Rick Norlock. "I am pleased that the federal government is renewing their commitment to our local businesses in these difficult economic times, and I look forward to the continued successful projects the CFDC will help generate in the coming years."
"This investment will help rural communities strengthen and diversify their local economies," said Minister of State Goodyear. "It will also give SMEs in Southern Ontario opportunities to grow and create new jobs."
Executive Director, Wendy Curtis commented, "The extra funds are timely and welcome! We are finishing our third consecutive year of record growth in lending with over $1 million dollars this year alone. That's a new high for the CFDC. The funds are crucial to helping maintain momentum in small business growth and job creation throughout Northumberland County and we thank the Government of Canada for their support."
Recently, the Government of Canada proposed a five-point stimulus plan for CFDCs in Ontario to improve access to capital for rural SMEs. The points focus on:
CFDCs are community-based, not-for-profit organizations funded through the Community Futures Program. They are run by boards of local volunteers and are staffed by professionals who encourage entrepreneurship and the pursuit of economic opportunities. CFDCs offer a variety of business and community economic development services, including business planning and guidance, access to capital, and strategic community planning.
To find out more, visit the Ontario CFDCs website.
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For further information (media only), please contact:
| Gary Toft | Media Relations | |
| Director of Communications | Industry Canada | |
| Office of the Honourable Gary Goodyear | 613-943-2502 | |
| Minister of State (FedDev Ontario) | ||
| 613-943-7599 | ||
| Erica Meekes | ||
| Executive Assistant | ||
| Office of Rick Norlock M.P. | ||
| Northumberland Quinte West | ||
| 613-483-8181 |
Government of Canada and VIA Rail announce new station for Cobourg
Sept 10, 2009
Cobourg, Ontario - At a ceremony in Cobourg, Ontario, Northumberland-Quinte West MP Rick Norlock, Mayor Peter Delanty and John Marginson, VIA Rail Canada's Chief Operating Officer, announced VIA's plans for a new station with improved and expanded facilities. VIA estimates that it will invest as much as $7 million for the new station and related improvements from recent capital funding for VIA announced by the Government of Canada. $1 million (TBC) of the project's cost will come from the government's Economic Action Plan.
"Investment in a new VIA station for Cobourg will not only create new jobs and stimulate the economy, but also allow VIA to provide better service to the people of this reigon." said Rick Norlock, MP for Northumberland-Quinte West. "By investing in rail services and facilities such as those here in Cobourg, our government is demonstrating that funding for VIA's capital renewal will stimulate economic activity and job creation, contribute to environmental sustainability and improve Canada's passenger rail system for years to come."
Click photo to enlarge it
L-R: VIA Rail Chief Operating Officer John Marginson, Cobourg Mayor Peter Delanty, Senior Counter Sales Agent Ray J. Facciol, and MP Rick Norlock.
VIA's John Marginson added, "The investments here in Cobourg and across our coast-to-coast route network will create a top-notch passenger rail service. A rail service that is safe, swift and sustainable. A rail system built by and for Canadians - for the 21st century. We - the 3,100 employees of VIA - are delighted that the citizens of Cobourg are going to be a part of this new era in rail travel."
VIA's new Cobourg station will be a fully-accessible and aesthetically-pleasing structure adjacent to the existing building. VIA is currently studying options for the design of the new station, with the final design to be selected later this year.
Whatever design is selected for the new Cobourg station, the preservation of the existing structure is assured. Discussions will soon begin with the Town of Cobourg regarding the preferred future use of this historic building. The existing heritage-designated building, opened in 1911, is no longer large enough to accommodate all customers at peak travel periods.
Furthermore, VIA's previously-announced, $300 million Kingston Subdivision Project will add new main line tracks and will include rearranging the track layout in some locations to increase safety, train frequency and service reliability. In Cobourg, this involves adding one new main line track and a second platform, which cannot be done while still making use of the existing station.
"Cobourg's connection with and affection for the railways goes back to 1856, when the Grand Trunk's first train steamed into town," said Cobourg Mayor Peter Delanty. "It brought with it so many opportunities for this town to grow and prosper. I'm convinced these VIA projects can and will do the same today."
VIA's Cobourg Station Project is linked with other work now or soon to be underway throughout the Quebec-Windsor Corridor, which generates almost 90% of VIA's ridership and 75% of its revenue. In combination, these projects will allow for increases in VIA train safety, frequency and on-time performance, as well as reductions in travel time.
Major upgrading work is also underway on key elements of VIA's locomotive and rolling stock fleets for intercity, transcontinental and remote service. Other infrastructure projects are aimed at improving service quality and cost efficiency at other points across VIA's coast-to-coast route network. These upgrades are part of an unprecedented $923 million capital investment in passenger rail modernization and expansion by the Government of Canada that is stimulating job creation, skills development and private sector activity across the country.
About VIA Rail Canada
As Canada's national rail passenger service, VIA Rail Canada's mandate is to provide efficient, environmentally sustainable and cost-effective passenger transportation, both in Canada's business corridor and in remote and rural regions of the country. Every week, VIA operates 503 intercity, transcontinental and regional trains linking 450 communities across its 12,500-kilometre route network. The demand for VIA services is growing as travellers increasingly turn to train travel as a safe, hassle-free and environmentally responsible alternative to congested roads and airports. In 2008, VIA safely transported 4.6 million passengers - the most since 1989 - and set an all-time record of $299 million in revenue.
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Backgrounders:
VIA's CN Kingston Subdivision Project
Other Capital Investment Backgrounders
Media Contacts:
Ashley Doyle
VIA Rail Canada
(416) 528-9125
Chris Hilton
Office of the Minister of State (Transport)
(613) 991-0700
Erica Meekes
Executive Assistant
Office of Rick Norlock, M.P.
Northumberland Quinte West
(613) 483-8181
Government of Canada Invests in the Township of Cramahe to Stimulate the Local Economy
Sept 8, 2009
Cramahe Township, Ontario - Rick Norlock, MP for Northumberland Quinte West, announced today the Township of Cramahe 'Industrial Park Improvement and Expansion Plan' will receive a significant boost, in part from a $424,932 investment from the Community Adjustment Fund (CAF) established to stimulate the local economies of Southern Ontario.
The Industrial Park Improvement and Expansion Plan will create immediate employment opportunities within the Township of Cramahe. This investment will also benefit the community by providing necessary improvements to local infrastructure that will promote the expansion and growth of existing and new industrial businesses, and this will create future jobs. In addition, this investment will allow for new industries to adopt a 'green' component within their structures and practices while the Township works with these businesses to develop environmentally friendly facilities.
"I am very pleased that the Township of Cramahe, 'Industrial Park Improvement and Expansion Plan' has been granted $424,932 dollars from the 'Community Adjustment Fund (CAF)'" said MP, Rick Norlock.
"Northumberland County, on a regional basis has required additional industrial land capacity. Our government is working to address these needs. This investment will improve the availability of industrial lots, while promoting an environmental component to new and expanding businesses. In addition, this investment will stimulate the local economy and immediately generate local jobs."
Click photo to enlarge it
This project is part of the up to $102 million investment made through the Community Adjustment Fund for 2009-2010, announced on August 27 by the Honourable Gary Goodyear, newly appointed Minister of State for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario). It is the government's intention to support a total of 90 projects in communities across Southern Ontario that are struggling with the effects of the global economic downturn.
Approved projects must meet the terms and conditions set out in their funding agreements. A complete list of approved projects in Southern Ontario will be made available online at www.ic.gc.ca/caf on September 10, 2009.
Applications for 2010-2011 CAF project funds will be accepted by FedDev Ontario later this year. A public announcement will be made once details are finalized.
CAF is just one in a series of initiatives introduced in the Government of Canada's Economic Action Plan designed to address the short-term effects of the economic decline on communities across Canada, while preparing our communities for long-term growth. For more information on Canada's Economic Action Plan, please visit www.actionplan.gc.ca.
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Contact:
Erica Meekes
Executive Assistant
Office of Rick Norlock M.P.
Northumberland Quinte West
613-483-8181
Government of Canada Invests in Port Hope to Stimulate the Local Economy
Sept 1, 2009
Port Hope, Ontario - September 1, 2009, Rick Norlock, MP for Northumberland Quinte West, announced today the Municipality of Port Hope Business Incubator project is moving forward thanks to an investment of $565 000 to stimulate the local economy under the Community Adjustment Fund (CAF) in Southern Ontario.
This investment will create immediate employment opportunities and will support local economies in the Municipality of Port Hope and surrounding communities. The Business Incubator is a private/public enterprise that will offer supportive and mentoring services to new business enterprises. The incubator space will offer lower than market lease rates, but will also encourage businesses to become independent within 3-5 years. The Business Incubator will also provide administration support, reception services and share other office equipment.
"I am very pleased that the Municipality of Port Hope Business Incubator has been granted $565 000 dollars from the 'Community Adjustment Fund (CAF)'" said MP, Rick Norlock. "Our government is working to address the long term economic needs of our community, and this fund will go far in generating local jobs and stimulating the local economy. Additionally, CAF- through the Business Incubator will help the development of stronger businesses in the future, by supporting local entrepreneurs today in these difficult economic times."
Mayor Linda Thompson stated "This project was identified as strategic to the growth and sustainability of our local economy, the CAF funding now enables the Municipality to proceed where it would not otherwise have been able to. We conservatively estimate the Business Incubator will create 50 new and sustainable jobs within the first three years of operations."
Municipality of Port Hope Economic Development Office Judy Selvig stated, "The funding was critical for the Business Incubator Project and will enable the Municipality to foster new sustainable business start ups through the development of flexible business space and support services."
This project is part of the up to $102 million investment made through the Community Adjustment Fund for 2009-2010, announced on August 27 by the Honourable Gary Goodyear, newly appointed Minister of State for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario). It is the government's intention to support a total of 90 projects in communities across Southern Ontario that are struggling with the effects of the global economic downturn.
Approved projects must meet the terms and conditions set out in their funding agreements. A complete list of approved projects in Southern Ontario will be made available online at www.ic.gc.ca/caf on September 10, 2009.
Applications for 2010-2011 CAF project funds will be accepted by FedDev Ontario later this year. A public announcement will be made once details are finalized.
CAF is just one in a series of initiatives introduced in the Government of Canada's Economic Action Plan designed to address the short-term effects of the economic decline on communities across Canada, while preparing our communities for long-term growth. For more information on Canada's Economic Action Plan, please visit www.actionplan.gc.ca.
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Contact:
Erica Meekes
Executive Assistant
Office of Rick Norlock M.P.
Northumberland Quinte West
613-483-8181
Rick Norlock supports the Port Hope All-Canadian Jazz Festival
August 28, 2009
Port Hope - Today at Rotary Park in Port Hope, Member of Parliament Rick Norlock delivered news of funding from the 'Arts Presentation Canada' program through Heritage Canada. The Port Hope All-Canadian Jazz Festival (ACJF) will receive $25,000 in funding from the federal government.
The 8th annual Port Hope All-Canadian Jazz Festival is a three day event from September 25th to the 27th, 2009. The ACJF will exclusively present 14 all Canadian jazz artists and ensembles performing in varying genres of jazz music. These concerts will be taking place; on stage in the Memorial Park in Port Hope, four community venues in Port Hope and neighboring communities, as well as in outdoor locations downtown Port Hope.
The Port Hope ACJF also supports young jazz musicians and local artists through the "Blow Your Own Horn" parade, as well as providing workshops and concerts that will target high school and middle school students.
"Our government is proud to support local arts festivals and I am pleased that we are strengthening our commitment to the arts community," said Rick Norlock. "The Port Hope All-Canadian Jazz Festival is an opportunity for all members of the community, especially youth, to discover their musical abilities.
Through the Arts Presentation Canada Program Canadians can experience and express a reflection of Canada's cultural diversity while attracting new visitors to local communities.
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Contact:
Erica Meekes
Executive Assistant
Office of Rick Norlock M.P.
Northumberland Quinte West
613-483-8181
The Government of Canada Supports Women in Business
Northumberland Quinte West, August 25th 2009 - Our current government is working hard to support women in business. WEConnect Canada is a not for profit organization whose development for the Canadian chapter was successfully encouraged by the Honourable Minister for State (Status of Women) Helena Guergis, and is supported through the Opening Doors to Corporate Markets: An Education, Training, Coaching and Mentoring Program.
WeConnect is an organization that provides a leading international certification standard for businesses managed and owned by a minimum 51% female composition. Additionally, WEConnect provides multiple opportunities for businesses on a personal basis to train, educate, coach and mentor the development of women in business. WeConnect provides a strong network of support that female entrepreneurs require to compete on a global scale.
"In Canada today, women are starting business at twice the rate of men. In working with WEConnect, we are giving those women access to markets which were unavailable to them previously," said Minister Helena Guergis. "Status of Women Canada, in partnership with Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada, is committed to ensuring the success of Canadian businesswomen as they conduct trade around the globe. By partnering with such worthy projects as WEConnect, this Government continues to advance women's full participation in all aspects of Canadian life, including helping them expand their businesses to the next level of success."
We encourage women in business to visit the WEConnect website for more information on the program, at: www.WEConnectCanada.org
The Honourable Helena Guergis as Minister of State for the Status of Women continues to be strongly supportive of women in business development and will be available to further address these key issues. A fundraising event to be held at the Oak Heights Estate Winery in Warkworth; Friday September 18 5:30-7:00pm, where she will further address the difficulties faced in the development of women's economic autonomy.
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Contact:
Erica Meekes
Executive Assistant
Office of Rick Norlock M.P.
Northumberland Quinte West
613-483-8181
Rick Norlock delivers funding for the Port Hope and District Agricultural Society
Port Hope, On, August 21, 2009 - Today at the Town Park Recreation Centre in Port Hope On, Member of Parliament Rick Norlock delivered news of funding from the 'Arts Presentation Canada' program through Heritage Canada. The Port Hope and District Agricultural Society will receive $12, 000 in funding.
The Port Hope and District Agricultural Society will host the 178th Port Hope Fair on September 18th, 19th and 20th 2009 at the Town Park Recreation Centre in Port Hope. The Fair features a combination of agricultural education, opportunities for competition, various demonstrations and exhibits, and a midway. The theme of the fair this year is 'A Community Harvest'. This theme combines the characteristics of town and country; offering artistic creativity and diversity while also showcasing local agricultural efforts that yield a wide variety of produce.
"I am pleased that our government continues to support local cultural events that strengthen our Canadian heritage," said Rick Norlock. "The Conservative Government is contributing to agricultural education and this grant will help to bring the surrounding community together to celebrate our local agricultural history."
The Arts Presentation Canada Program supports access to a broad range of artistic expression, cultivating local heritage by promoting cultural diversity.
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Contact:
Erica Meekes
Executive Assistant
Office of Rick Norlock M.P.
Northumberland Quinte West
613-483-8181
Canada's Economic Action Plan
Harper Government Launches New Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario
Northumberland Quinte West, August 14, 2009 - Rick Norlock, MP for Northumberland Quinte West, and the Conservative government have officially launched the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario). The launch is the final step in fulfilling a key commitment in the Government's Economic Action Plan.
"This is good news for workers and businesses in Southern Ontario", said Rick Norlock. "With district offices throughout the region, FedDev Ontario will be one more tool to ensure that workers and businesses in Northumberland Quinte West have the resources they need to succeed."
Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced the new Regional Development Agency in Kitchener-Waterloo yesterday, with Minister of State Gary Goodyear. Minister of State Goodyear will have responsibility for the new Agency.
"I look forward to working with the Minister in his new role as we look for opportunities to attract and keep jobs here in Northumberland Quinte West", said Rick Norlock.
The federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario will be Canada's fifth regional development organization. A sixth regional development organization for Canada's North is also planned.
FedDev Ontario will support restructuring, community and business development, innovation and commercialization initiatives as well as other measure to promote economic diversification. It builds on the significant investments already being implemented through Canada's Economic Action Plan.
For more information, please visit www.actionplan.gc.ca
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Contact:
Erica Meekes
Executive Assistant
Office of Rick Norlock M.P.
Northumberland Quinte West
613-483-8181
Rick Norlock, MP announces $16,000 to promote French language in the Quinte West community
August 10, 2009
Trenton - Today Rick Norlock, MP Northumberland Quinte-West announced federal funding in the amount of $16,000 for Franco-Phare - an organization that serves the French speaking community of the Quinte region.
"Franco-Phare is a well deserving organization that promotes an integration of culture within our French and English communities," said Mr. Norlock. "They foster a welcoming environment for new and established citizens of our area, through integrated activities, community gatherings and events that share in French culture."
The funding comes from the 'Cooperation with the Community Sector' from the Official Languages segment of Heritage Canada.
This program intends to create long-term relationships between organizations and their local community to encourage development, innovation and excellence.
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Contact:
Erica Meekes
Executive Assistant
Office of Rick Norlock M.P.
Northumberland Quinte West
613-483-8181
Government of Canada delivers support for not-for-profit organizations in Ontario communities
August 6, 2009
Northumberland Quinte West - Not-for-profit organizations in Ontario can now apply for funding that will allow significant infrastructure improvements. "Under the strong leadership of Prime Minister Stephen Harper, the Government of Canada initiating job creation in our communities with funding for shovel in the ground projects", said Rick Norlock. "Not-for-profit organizations will have the opportunity to make significant improvements to existing community facilities."
Canada's Economic Action Plan has allowed for nearly $4 billion in funding toward the Infrastructure Stimulus Fund. Of this $1.5 billion has been allocated for Ontario, to be matched by provincial funds. Already $2 billion in funding is intended for shovel-ready projects in the province of Ontario, and the construction of these projects must be complete by March 31, 2009.
Funding is applicable to such projects as: temporary housing structures, community centers, community services and cultural infrastructure. For-profit projects may also be eligible if they are relevant to either short-line rail and port, or cruiseship infrastructure categories. Applications must be submitted by August 18, 2009.
To learn more about this program please contact Erica Meekes at the office of Rick Norlock, MP, or visit the 'Creating Jobs' section of 'Infrastructure Canada's' website, at www.buildingcanada-chantierscanada.gc.ca
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Contact:
Erica Meekes
Executive Assistant
Office of Rick Norlock M.P.
Northumberland Quinte West
613-483-8181
Rick Norlock delivers funding for the Shelter Valley Folk Festival
August 4, 2009
Cobourg, ON – Today at the summer office location for the Shelter Valley Folk Festival on King Street in Cobourg, Member of Parliament Rick Norlock delivered news of funding from the 'Arts Presentation Canada Program' through Canadian Heritage. The Shelter Valley Folk Festival will receive $20,000 in funding.
The 6th annual Shelter Valley Folk Festival will take place at the site of Henkel Farm, near Grafton. This Festival features 25 acts performing folk, roots and world musical entertainment for all audiences. The performers include established as well as emerging Ontario talent; and six other provinces and territories, as well as two out of country musicians. This is an outdoor event that promotes wellness and sustainable living as well as a family atmosphere. The festival hosts three daytime workshop stages as well as an evening main stage.
The Arts Presentation Canada Program promotes local culture through its support for the performance of local talent, and by providing the opportunity for communities to enjoy festivals such as the Shelter Valley Folk Festival, that enrich local heritage.
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Contact:
Erica Meekes
Executive Assistant
Office of Rick Norlock M.P.
Northumberland Quinte West
613-483-8181
Hastings Waterfront Festival Welcomes Visitors to Celebrate Antique Boats, Local Artisans, & Musicians
July 31, 2009
Hastings, ON – Today, the Hastings Waterfront Festival Committee along with the Government of Canada are pleased to announce $10,000 in funding from the Building Communities through Arts and Heritage program to help enhance this already successful tourism event in its third year.
The Hastings Waterfront Festival will welcome thousands of visitors on August 14th and 15th, 2009 to the Hastings Village Marina to enjoy a celebration local art, music, and a stunning display of antique and classic boats, cars and motorcycles.
The festival will kick off on Friday night, August 14th, with a waterfront bbq and concert featuring the 2008 Collingwood Elvis Fest Grand Champion John Cigan. On Saturday, beautifully restored boats from the Trent Severn Antique & Classic Boat Association will arrive at the Marina, antique cars and motorcycles will be on display, over 15 local artisans will be displaying and demonstrating their craft, and food and local musicians will fill the day. The full festival details can be found at www.hastingsfestival.ca
“I am very pleased that our government is able to support this great event in Hastings, 'The Hub of the Trent”, said Rick Norlock, Member of Parliament for Northumberland-Quinte West.
“This festival celebrates our boating heritage and showcases the vibrant and talented arts and cultural community in the Hastings area.
And what a boon to the tourism component of the local economy!”
“We are really excited to see the Hastings Waterfront Festival grow to a two day event,” comments Erin Farley, Festival Chair, “The support of our partners and the Building Communities through Arts and Heritage program has been a tremendous boost to expand the festival and showcase village of Hastings and surrounding area.”
The Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program was created by the Government of Canada to help celebrate a community, its past and its present. The Program will increase opportunities, through festivals or other events and activities, for your local artists and artisans to be involved in their community and for local groups to commemorate your local history and heritage.
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Contact:
Erica Meekes
Executive Assistant
Office of Rick Norlock M.P.
Northumberland Quinte West
613-483-8181
Canada and Ontario Invest in Broadband Accesss for Eastern Ontario
Investment will create jobs and stimulate the regional economy
July 30, 2009
Brighton, Ontario - Rick Norlock, Member of Parliament and Lou Rinaldi, Member of Provincial Parliament for Northumberland-Quinte West, today announced that the construction of a broadband network is a step closer in Eastern Ontario.
The Government of Canada and the Province of Ontario have together set aside up to $110 million for the project. The federal and provincial governments have a long-standing commitment to increasing broadband access across Ontario. This new funding builds on the government's significant investments to spur innovation, attract investment and build a skilled workforce.
"I am extremely pleased that we have finally solidified the deal with the Eastern Ontario Wardens Caucus as this brings to a conclusion over two years of co-operation.
Since my election in 2006 this has been a commitment that I made to the citizens of Northumberland Quinte-West for a comprehensive long term solution to the lack of broadband connectivity in the whole of our riding (Eastern Ontario)."
Rick Norlock, MP
"Today's announcement will mean that rural Ontarians will have better access to educational, business and ecommerce opportunities, to name but a few. As we face challenging economic times, it becomes ever more crucial that all Ontarians have access to key services like high speed internet connectivity and this new fund will help make that a reality" - Lou Rinaldi, M.P.P.
Demonstrating their commitment to stimulating the economy and creating jobs, both the governments of Canada and Ontario are moving forward with a number of large scale infrastructure programs to assist Ontarians when they need it most. The Government of Canada's 2009 Economic Action Plan is accelerating and expanding the existing federal investment of $33 billion in infrastructure across Canada with almost $12 billion in new infrastructure stimulus funding over the next two years.
Through the 2009 Ontario Budget - Confronting the Challenge: Building Our Economic Future - the province is investing $32.5 billion in infrastructure for the province of Ontario over the next two years, including a $5 billion contribution from the federal government that will support more than 300,000 jobs and strengthen Ontario's economy.
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LEARN MORE
To learn more about Canada's Economic Action Plan, visit www.actionplan.gc.ca.
Learn how the Government of Canada is investing in Ontario infrastructure.
Learn how the Government of Ontario is helping to build and revitalize infrastructure across the province.
Contact:
Lou Rinaldi, M.P.P.,
Northumberland-Quinte West
1-800-263-3980
Rick Norlock, M.P.
Northumberland-Quinte West
905-372-8757
M.P. Rick Norlock welcomes new Executive Assistant
July 23, 2009
Cobourg, On - Northumberland Quinte West Member of Parliament Rick Norlock welcomed his new Executive Assistant to his team today. Erica Meekes will fill the role with the departure of Tom Rittwage. Erica has recently graduated with a degree in Communications from the University of Ottawa, and has been a part of the M.P.'s staff the past two summers. Erica grew up on a farm in Castleton, Ontario and attended East Northumberland Secondary School. "I am very pleased to welcome Erica to our team," said Norlock. "Erica is a bright and intelligent young woman who has a great understanding of Northumberland Quinte West. Her deep roots in the farming community, and the Castleton area, will be a great asset for her as she takes on her new role."
Tom Rittwage will be returning to his career with the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) after successfully qualifying as a Correctional Manager during a recent CSC competition process. "Tom will be greatly missed in our office. His professionalism and work ethic have been a great benefit not only to me, but to the people of Northumberland Quinte West," said Norlock. "He has indicated that the timing is right for him to return to Warkworth Institution. I want to thank him for all of his hard work and wish him every success in the future as he returns to his previous career".
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Contact:
Erica Meekes
Executive Assistant
Office of Rick Norlock M.P.
Northumberland Quinte West
613-483-8181
Rick Norlock, MP Announces $8,600 for Colborne 150th Anniversary
July 22, 2009
Colborne ON. - Today Rick Norlock, MP Northumberland Quinte West announced federal funding in the amount of $8,600 for the village of Colborne.
The funding is allocated from the 'Community Historical Program Fund,' from Heritage Canada, to promote and sustain community cultural and heritage initiatives.
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Contact:
Thomas Rittwage
Executive Assistant
Office of Rick Norlock M.P.
Northumberland Quinte West
613-483-8181
HAMILTON BREAKS GROUND ON RICE LAKE DRIVE UPGRADES
July 16, 2009
BEWDLEY: The Township of Hamilton held a groundbreaking ceremony today to start construction on the rehabilitation of Rice Lake Road funded under the Communities Component of the Building Canada Fund. Rick Norlock, MP for Northumberland-Quinte West; Lou Rinaldi, MPP for Northumberland-Quinte West; and Mark Lovshin, Mayor of the Township of Hamilton, are pleased to see this important project get underway.
The completion of upgrades to the Camborne and Creighton Heights water systems funded under the Canada-Ontario Infrastructure Program were also celebrated.
The Township of Hamilton committed the balance of the project's total eligible cost. The federal government also contributed an additional $318,960 under the Ontario Potable Water Program.
"The improvements to this road will provide a safer commute for drivers, and will offer pedestrians and cyclists a beautiful new multi-use pathway near the waterfront," said MP Norlock. "The upgrades to the Camborne and Creighton Heights water systems will ensure the safety and sustainability of Hamilton's water system for years to come."
This project is one of 290 across the province that will break ground thanks to a joint federal-provincial investment of over $685 million under the first intake of the Building Canada Fund Communities Component. During these challenging economic times, the governments of Canada and Ontario have taken steps to get shovels in the ground and to flow money faster for infrastructure projects in the 2009 and 2010 construction seasons.
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Contact:
Thomas Rittwage
Executive Assistant
Office of Rick Norlock M.P.
Northumberland Quinte West
613-483-8181
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