Released on October 2, 2003
Construction is underway on upgrades to La Ronge's water treatment plant and a sewage pumping station thanks to support from the Canada-Saskatchewan Infrastructure Program (CSIP). The upgrades mean more drinking water for La Ronge residents and improved sewage treatment.Corrections and Public Safety Minister Andrew Thomson is in La Ronge today to present a cheque on behalf of the CSIP to La Ronge Mayor Joe Hordyski. Funding for the project was announced in April 2002.
The provincial government is providing $766,666, and the federal government is providing $153,334 to the $1,381,000 project. The town will contribute the remaining $457,970. The water portion involves improvements to the water treatment plant, water distribution system and reservoir storage capacity. The sewage portion involves improvements to the sewage pumping station and a study of the community's total sewage system.
"A safe supply of abundant water and environmentally sound sewage systems are essential in ensuring the sustainability of Saskatchewan communities and we are pleased to be a part of the team contributing to Saskatchewan's wide open future," Thomson said.
"This federal-provincial-municipal partnership demonstrates what collaborative efforts between governments can achieve to improve the quality of life for Canadians," Secretary of State Stephen Owen said (Western Economic Diversification) (Indian Affairs Northern Development). "Whether it's water treatment improvement, newer, more environmentally-friendly sewage treatment systems or road construction, we commend partner communities, like La Ronge, for their leadership and vision in developing projects that will provide lasting benefits for many years to come."
"The Town of La Ronge is pleased to work with our federal and provincial government partners to improve our water and sewer systems," Mayor Hordyski said. "Without the assistance of the Canada Saskatchewan Infrastructure Program, this project would have been impossible."
This is the third year of the five-year Canada-Saskatchewan Infrastructure Program that will see an investment of more than $170 million in federal, provincial and municipal funds in Saskatchewan municipalities. During the first three years of the program, more than $84 million in federal and provincial funds have been announced for 298 projects. The program provides up to two-thirds of the eligible costs associated with community projects. Communities provide the remaining minimum one-third of the project costs.
Other priorities under the program include local transportation infrastructure, cultural and recreational facilities, infrastructure supporting tourism, rural and remote telecommunications, high-speed Internet access for local public institutions, and affordable housing.
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For More Information, Contact:
| Cathie Gourlie Government Relations and Aboriginal Affairs Regina Phone: (306)787-2687 Email: cgourlie@graa.gov.sk.ca | Joanne Mysak Western Economic Diversification Canada Saskatoon Phone: (306)975-5942 Email: joanne.mysak@wd.gc.ca |