Cornwall area residents will benefit from new investments made by the provincial government in cooperation with local groups, says Fisheries, Aquaculture and Rural Development Minister Ron MacKinley.

“Government is pleased to partner with local community organizations to carry out projects that will benefit rural residents,” said Mr. MacKinley. “The projects improve economic and social opportunities, while contributing to making our communities more safe and secure.”

The Island Community Fund will contribute $11,522 towards a $28,806 project to re-surface the gym floor at the APM Centre in Cornwall. The floor at the multi-use recreational complex is 14 years old.

(Left to right) Jeff Taylor, Facility Chair at the Cornwall Curling Club; Carol Sweetapple, club member; Fisheries, Aquaculture and Rural Development Minister Ron MacKinley; and Alan MacCormac, assistant ice technician at the Club, check out the curling stones following the announcement.

Mr. MacKinley said the department is also providing support to three other projects in the Cornwall area. The Cornwall Curling Club is reconditioning 64 curling stones at a cost of $13,760 with support from the department of $6,880. The North River Rural Community Fire Department will receive $7,777 towards a $14,554 expenditure to purchase new equipment. The Cornwall Lions Club is receiving $8,800 towards a $11,730 project to purchase and outfit a mobile unit to sell lobsters.

“Projects such as these have far-reaching benefits for residents of rural communities,” said Mr. MacKinley. “I commend the many volunteers who spend countless hours in community organizations that make rural areas stronger and better places in which to live and work.”

Since 2009, the Island Community Fund has invested nearly $20 million to support more than 400 projects across the province, with a total project value of more than $67 million.