On Saturday, Dec. 8, Cathy McLeod, Member of Parliament for Kamloops-Thompson-Cariboo, on behalf of the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification, announced federal funding for upgrades to the North Thompson Fall Fair and Rodeo Association’s facility under the Harper Government’s Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund (CIIF).
McLeod made the announcement at the Fall Fair Hall in Barriere, to area dignitaries and a number of NTFFRA members.
“Our Government, through the Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund, is continuing to support communities across Canada,” said MP McLeod. “This project will create jobs, growth and long-term prosperity in our community.”
Federal funding of $53,094 will help upgrade the North Thompson Fall Fair and Rodeo Association facility, including building upgrades, irrigation system extension, and material replacement. The funding will provide an upgraded facility that benefits from new, modern components and materials.
“I am especially pleased to be able to announce this funding to assist the Fall Fair Association with your wonderful facility here in Barriere,” said McLeod.
“The North Thompson Fall Fair and Rodeo Association is excited to be receiving this funding from the Federal government,” said Jill Hayward, president of the Association, “Our facility is kept busy hosting events all year long. Being able to make the upgrades that are necessary to keep the grounds and buildings in top shape will help us to continue to be a key player in the economy of the community and the Region.”
Hayward noted that the funding cannot go towards the construction of the North Thompson Agriplex, but will be utilized throughout the rest of the NTFFRA facility.
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.