Today, Jim Hillyer, Member of Parliament for Lethbridge, on behalf of the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification, announced support for Lions Aquatic Centre under the Harper Government's Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund (CIIF).

"Our Government is pleased to support infrastructure projects across the country like the Lions Aquatic Centre Rehabilitation project," said MP Hillyer. "The Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund will benefit Canadian families and communities immediately, helping to support job creation, boosting economic activity, as well as creating safe and accessible community infrastructure facilities for years to come."

The Harper Government's investment of $125,300 will support upgrades to the Aquatic Centre, including the reinstallation of the pool systems and the resurfacing the pool area. These improvements will help ensure that residents and visitors of the Town of Picture Butte can continue to enjoy this recreational hub for years to come.

"We are extremely pleased by the commitment of the Federal Government and our MP Mr. Jim Hillyer to support recreation programs at the local level," said Terry Kerkhoff, Mayor of Picture Butte. "The Picture Butte Lions Aquatic Centre has been the hub of our community for many years and we are very proud to offer this amenity to our residents, as well as other residents in the surrounding areas. This funding will allow us to ensure the viability of this facility for many years to come."

In Economic Action Plan 2012, the Harper Government announced further support to help communities across the country modernize their infrastructure. Our Government committed $150 million over two years for the Fund. The Fund supports projects that look to improve existing community infrastructure, such as community centres, recreational buildings, local arenas, cultural and other community facilities.

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.

For more information, contact:

Donna Kinley
Regional Communications Manager
Western Economic Diversification Canada
Telephone: 780-495-6892
Email: Donna.Kinley@wd.gc.ca

Mike Derricott
Chief Administrative Officer
Town of Picture Butte
Telephone: 403-732-4555
Email: mike@picturebutte.ca

WD Toll-Free Number:1-888-338-WEST (9378)
Teletypewriter (TTY): 1-877-303-3388
WD Website: www.wd-deo.gc.ca.
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