Minister of Finance Jim Flaherty, Red Lake Mayor Phil Vinet and Kenora MP, Greg Rickford


RED LAKE, Ontario — Today, the Honourable Jim Flaherty, Minister of Finance, on behalf of the Honourable Tony Clement, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for FedNor, announced a Government of Canada investment, through FedNor, of more than $2.6 million in support of community economic development and small business in Red Lake.

“Today’s announcement demonstrates the Government of Canada’s ongoing commitment to work with communities, such as Red Lake, by helping set the stage for development and growth,” said Minister Flaherty.

The Municipality of Red Lake is developing Nungesser Road Industrial Park located near Goldcorp Red Lake Gold Mines and the Red Lake Airport. FedNor funding of just over $2.3M through the Northern Ontario Development Program, will be used to extend water, sewer, hydro and telephone service to half of the 80 proposed lots. This project will include tender, design, management and construction phases.

“This investment in Red Lake’s new industrial park will not only help meet local needs, but will help attract business investors to the community,” said Minister Clement. “Our government recognizes that our key role is to provide a support business climate that fosters economic development.”

An additional $300,000 investment, through FedNor’s Community Future’s program, will enable the Chukuni Communities Development Corporation to continue to offer business services, access to capital for small and medium-sized businesses, and support community development projects in the Red Lake region for another year.

These investments complement new initiatives introduced as part of Canada’s Economic Action Plan, such as the Community Adjustment Fund and Infrastructure Stimulus Fund, which are helping Northern communities overcome the challenges brought on by the global economic downturn, while building for future growth and prosperity.

“FedNor’s support of the industrial park will help us meet an identified community need, providing existing businesses with the space they need to expand, as well as accommodate new businesses,” said Phil Vinet, Mayor of Red Lake. “In addition, ongoing support for Chukuni Communities Development Corporation will help strengthen small and medium-sized enterprises in our region.” 

By supporting the people, communities and business in Red Lake through its programs and services, FedNor is opening doors and building futures for a prosperous Northern Ontario.

To find out more about FedNor, visit us at: http://ic.gc.ca/fednor