Harper Government Supports Sport Development and Participation in New Brunswick

FREDERICTON, Sept. 19, 2013 /CNW/ - The Honourable Bal Gosal, Minister of State (Sport), and the Honourable Dorothy Shephard, New Brunswick Minister of Healthy and Inclusive Communities, today announced contributions from the Government of Canada and Government of New Brunswick for sport development and participation in New Brunswick. Also present at the announcement was Mike Allen, Member of Parliament (Tobique-Mactaquac).

"Working with provincial and territorial governments to advance important priorities for sport and physical activity in Canada is something our Government is proud to do. We want to make sport participation and athlete development a part of Canadians' everyday lives," said Minister of State Gosal. "Today's funding announcement clearly demonstrates that we are committed to working together with all levels of government to achieve this common goal. Sport participation and active living are important elements in keeping our communities and children healthy and active."

"Investing in sport has been part of our government's plan to rebuild a healthier and more active New Brunswick. We are proud to be working with our federal colleagues to find ways to encourage New Brunswickers to participate in sport and incorporate physical activity in their daily lives," said Minister Shephard. "Today's announcement will allow us to continue to support athlete development and, in the longer term, help more of our teams reach the podium."

"This bilateral agreement between the Government of Canada and the Province of New Brunswick will allow us to build on our existing sport foundation," said Mr. Allen. "It will enhance the delivery of programs and services, and contribute to long-lasting social, economic, cultural and community impacts right across the province."

The three-year renewed bilateral agreement with New Brunswick involves a federal investment of $865,920 ($288,640 per year) with a matching contribution from New Brunswick, for a total of $1,731,840.

SOURCE: Canadian Heritage