ABBOTSFORD, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwired - July 28, 2015) - Western Economic Diversification Canada

Today, the Honourable Ed Fast, Minister of International Trade and Member of Parliament for Abbotsford, on behalf of the Honourable Michelle Rempel, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification, announced support of $144,250 for improvements to the Sumas First Nation Longhouse under the federal government's Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program.

In Budget 2015, the Government of Canada announced additional support to help communities across the country modernize their infrastructure. The Government committed $150 million for the Program, in order to provide significant support for community and cultural infrastructure across the country, as we celebrate Canada's 150^th anniversary of Confederation.

The Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program will help fund renovations, expansions and rehabilitations to existing infrastructure that provides community and cultural benefits for the public. The program represents one of several infrastructure-related initiatives that the Government of Canada has undertaken to generate well-being and prosperity across Canada.

Quick Facts

• The Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program provides $150 million over two years to be delivered by regional development agencies across the country. It is part of the federal government's activities to honour Canada's 150^th anniversary of Confederation in 2017.
• The support received under the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program will help the Sumas First Nation make important upgrades to the Longhouse, including mechanical and electrical upgrades, building upgrades and the renovation of an existing kitchen.

Quotes

"Through our Government's support for the updates to the Sumas First Nation Longhouse we are helping to ensure that this important part of the community remains viable for years to come. Through the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program, we are building stronger communities and creating jobs and growth by investing in vital infrastructure."

- The Honourable Ed Fast, Minister of International Trade and Member of Parliament for Abbotsford

"In this modern day when Canada celebrates it 150 year anniversary we are proud to say we are still here, we continue to celebrate our traditional & cultural practices as our ancestors had. We are pleased to celebrate with Canada and thankful for the contribution from the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program."

- Chief Dalton Silver, Sumas First Nation

Additional Links

• WD: Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program

• Sumas First Nation

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