OTTAWA, February 6, 2009 – The Honourable Christian Paradis, MP for Mégantic—L’Érable and Minister of Public Works and Government Services, is proud to announce the Conservative government’s Recreational Infrastructure Canada (RiNC) Program. In order to create jobs and sustain local businesses in various communities across Canada, the RiNC Program will invest $500 million in the construction and renovation of community hockey rinks and rec centres.

“Hockey is part of our collective history here in the riding of Mégantic—L’Érable. The rec centres and rinks play an important role in our community. They are where we gather to cheer on our teams and spend time with our neighbours. They promote well-being and help us to teach our children to lead a healthy lifestyle,” the Minister said.

Many of Canada’s rec centres were built to commemorate Canada’s centennial in 1967. After more than 40 years, and too many hockey games and community events to count, many of these buildings need major repairs.

“The investments in our rec centres and rinks will create jobs and inject money into our local businesses. These facilities will help us to teach our children the importance of competition and sportsmanship for the future,” said Mr. Paradis.

The Conservative government is allocating $500 million over the next two years for eligible projects, including hockey rinks, pools, basketball courts, soccer fields, tennis courts and rec centres. Municipalities, First Nations, counties, community organizations and other non-profit groups will be eligible for funding under the RiNC Program. Funding can be used to build new recreational facilities or upgrade existing sites, and will cover up to 50% of the total cost of the projects.