News Release
Office of the Official Opposition

   

 

Jones pleased government will commit more funding to Community Enhancement Program

October 20, 2005

Yvonne Jones, MHA for the District of Cartwright-L’Anse au Clair, says she is pleased that Municipal and Provincial Affairs Minister Jack Byrne committed this morning on VOCM Open Line to increase the funding allocated to the Community Enhancement Program.

"I am pleased Minister Byrne has finally recognized the need that exists in many rural communities throughout the province," said Ms. Jones. "I have spoken to the minister and the media in an attempt to convince government to increase this funding. I am very happy that the minister has listened to these concerns and will ask cabinet to help the people throughout the province who are struggling to get enough work this year.

"In my own District of Cartwright-L’Anse au Clair, only a small portion of the needs of the communities were addressed. Government allocated just over $100,000 to support these projects, an amount that did not come close to fulfilling the number of requests. I am hopeful that additional funding will help meet the real need that is present.

"Minister Byrne made a verbal commitment to the people of the province this morning. I will hold him accountable for his statements and continue to pressure government to invest this additional funding. There are many communities that are struggling in rural areas of our province. While this funding will not solve these problems, it will help them get through the winter months. I hope the minister recognizes this need when he allocates this additional funding."

 

Media Contact:
Darrell Mercer
Director of Communications
Office of the Official Opposition
709-729-6151 or 709-687-0477