BUILDING COMMUNITIES PROGRAM BENEFITS SHAUNAVON FAMILIES WITH $984,600

Young people, families and other residents in the Shaunavon area will soon have access to increased recreational activities with a $984,600 investment from the province of Saskatchewan through the Building Communities Program.

The Building Communities Program is the largest per capita cultural and infrastructure program in Canada.

"Cultural and recreational infrastructure form the heart and soul of Saskatchewan communities," Culture, Youth and Recreation Minister Sandra Morin said. "This investment is helping to make life better in Saskatchewan for youth, families and communities, now and into the future."

Morin today announced the contribution for the construction of a new recreation complex in Shaunavon to replace existing curling and skating facilities. Construction is scheduled to be completed by July 2008.

"Investment in cultural and recreational infrastructure is crucial to building strong and enduring communities," Morin said. "The construction of a new recreation complex will bring increased cultural and recreational opportunities to young people and families in and around Shaunavon."

"The Town of Shaunavon is extremely appreciative and excited about the support from the Province of Saskatchewan under the Building Communities Program," Shaunavon Mayor Sharon Dickie said. "Shaunavon is a community that is renowned for it's great athletes - such as Haley Wickenheiser, Braydon Coburn and the acclaimed Hunter Family - to mention only a few. It seems befitting that the Town of Shaunavon can now move forward with its dream of a new Recreation Complex. We also appreciate the support of the many rural and urban municipalities in the South West. This effort is indicative of the level of regional co-operation and collaboration."

The Building Communities Program is providing $100 million for cultural and recreational infrastructure over three years, beginning in 2006-07. In order to receive support from the program, community projects must have a regional approach, sound business plans and other financial partners.

Information on the Building Communities Program can be found on Culture, Youth and Recreation's website at www.cyr.gov.sk.ca.

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For more information, contact:

Janet Peters
Culture, Youth and Recreation
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4967
Email: jpeters@cyr.gov.sk.ca