Canada's Economic Action Plan Supports Nunavut Housing Corporation Beautification Project

CanNor-10-003

Iqaluit, Nunavut, (April 9, 2010) - The Nunavut Housing Corporation will undertake a territory-wide beautification project, thanks to new funding from the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency.

The Honourable Chuck Strahl, Minister of the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor), made the announcement today.

CanNor will provide the Nunavut Housing Corporation with $852,800 to paint the exteriors of its public housing units in 25 communities. This will result in an estimated 228 person-months of seasonal employment over the life of the project.

"This project will provide over 100 Nunavut residents with seasonal employment, and the opportunity to gain hands-on work experience in their own communities," said Minister Strahl, who is also Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor of Métis and Non-Status Indians. "The project will also be giving Nunavut's growing tourism industry a significant boost by enhancing the overall appearance of their communities."

"Simple maintenance like a coat of paint will also help extend the life of Nunavut's public housing units," said the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister responsible for the North and Minister of Health. "Our Government strives to work with its northern partners on projects like this one, which benefit Nunavut residents on a number of levels."

"We are extremely grateful for this funding from the Federal Government. The Community Adjustment Fund is an excellent example of the ongoing commitment from the Federal Government," said the Honourable Hunter Tootoo, Minister Responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation. "The Community Beautification Project, proposed by the Nunavut Housing Corporation, will improve and enhance the community's visual appearance by painting the exterior of buildings covered under the affordable housing programs."

The total estimated cost of this project is $1,215,360. CanNor will provide $852,800 and the Nunavut Housing Corporation will provide the remaining $362,560.

This project is funded through the Community Adjustment Fund (CAF), as part of Canada's Economic Action Plan. The fund will provide $32.8 million to the three territories from 2009 through 2011.

The CAF is part of a suite of economic development programs that fall under the mandate of CanNor in Nunavut, the Northwest Territories, and Yukon. CanNor is responsible for coordinating and delivering federal economic development activities in the territories, and for related policy development, research and advocacy.

Backgrounder - Nunavut Housing Corporation Beautification Project

For further information please contact:

Office of the Honourable Chuck Strahl
Michelle Yao
Press Secretary
(819) 997-0002

Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor), (Nunavut Regional Office)
Karen Mackenzie
Communications Advisor
(867) 867-975-4537

Nunavut Housing Corporation
Melody Nice
Manager, Policy and Planning
(867) 975-7208