QUESNEL, BRITISH COLUMBIA -- (Marketwire) -- 12/05/12 -- Today, Dick Harris, Member of Parliament for Cariboo-Prince George, on behalf of the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification, announced federal support for upgrades to the North Cariboo Aboriginal Centre under the Harper Government's Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund (CIIF).

"Our Government is continuing to support communities across Canada by investing in necessary infrastructure that will improve the quality of life and create new economic opportunities," said MP Harris. "This project will create jobs, growth and long-term prosperity in our community."

The federal investment of $83,300 will help the North Cariboo Aboriginal Family Program Society upgrade the North Cariboo Aboriginal Centre, which is an important facility for the local community. Funding will support the renovation of the playground, chimney, stairs, walls, roof, kitchen, and electrical system.

"Without this funding, we would never have been able to implement the critical structural and accessibility renovations to this building. These renovations have made an empty building a vibrant resource again," said Lorene Pulles, Team Leader, North Cariboo Aboriginal Family Program Society. "As well, Elders are excited about the garden they can now utilize for traditional and other food sources, and the children in our programs will have a larger, safe and healthy place to play. We look forward to our Centre being a vibrant community space."

CIIF supports, on a cost-shared basis, repairs and improvements to existing community infrastructure accessible to the public. Western Economic Diversification Canada (WD) is delivering the Fund in Western Canada with an allocation of $46.2 million over two years.

Since 2006, the Harper Government, through WD, has invested in job-creating small and medium-sized businesses, aerospace, marine and defence industries, and supported innovative entrepreneurs in pursuing emerging markets. By continuing to promote new economic opportunities, WD is helping to create jobs, economic growth, and long-term prosperity.

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