News for Rural Communities

1. $31.66 million to bring high-speed Internet access to 5,460 households in the Estrie and Montérégie regions by September 2022

   The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, responsible for the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC), today announced the appointment of Tania Clark and Vivek Jain to the BDC’s Board of Directors, effective June 11, 2021.

2. The government of Canada and the government of Quebec announced the new ministerial initiative on agri-food action/prevention

   The federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Marie-Claude Bibeau, and the Quebec Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, André Lamontagne, announced the creation of the Ministerial Initiative on Agri-Food Action/Prevention (MIAAP) for the management of health and food risks, which will remain in effect until March 1, 2023.

3. Government of Canada invests over 1.3 million to bring high-speed Internet to 329 more homes in Zimmerman and areas north of Burlington

   The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted how much we rely on our connections. Now more than ever, Canadians across the country need access to reliable high-speed Internet as many of us are working, learning, and staying in touch with friends and family from home.

4. Creating jobs by investing in Alberta agriculture

   Alberta’s government has streamlined its Canadian Agricultural Partnership (CAP) grant process to make it easier for producers to access grants.

5. Canada and FCM invest in asset management in British Columbia communities

   The Government of Canada is investing $693,626 in 15 new projects in British Columbia communities through the Municipal Asset Management Program (MAMP), delivered by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities on behalf of the federal government. The program helps municipalities strengthen local infrastructure planning and decision-making by increasing local asset management capacity through investments in activities such as asset management training, technology and software enhancements and information sharing.

6. Canada and FCM invest in asset management in Quebec communities

   This is why the Government of Canada is investing $150,000 in three new projects in Quebec communities through the Municipal Asset Management Program (MAMP), delivered by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities on behalf of the federal government. The program helps municipalities strengthen local infrastructure planning and decision-making by increasing local asset management capacity through investments in activities such as asset management training, technology and software enhancements and information sharing.

7. Canada and FCM invest in asset management in Ontario communities

   The Government of Canada is investing over $1.6 million in 39 new projects in Ontario communities through the Municipal Asset Management Program (MAMP), delivered by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities on behalf of the federal government. The program helps municipalities strengthen local infrastructure planning and decision-making by increasing local asset management capacity through investments in activities such as asset management training, technology and software enhancements and information sharing.

8. Canada and FCM invest in asset management in Newfoundland and Labrador communities

   As we continue to adapt to the new physical, social, and economic realities presented by COVID-19, all orders of government are working together to ensure the safety and well-being of Canadians. This includes providing local communities with tools and support for evidence-based decision-making that will help them plan a healthier, safer and more prosperous future for everyone.

9. Investing in safer recreation infrastructure for Cape Breton residents

   Today, Jaime Battiste, Member of Parliament for Sydney—Victoria, on behalf of the Honourable Maryam Monsef, Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Rural Economic Development; the Honourable Derek Mombourquette, Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development, on behalf of Communities, Culture and Heritage Minister Suzanne Lohnes-Croft; and Her Worship Amanda McDougall, Mayor of the Cape Breton Regional Municipality, announced funding for upgrades to the Centre 200 in Sydney, Nova Scotia. Mike Kelloway, Member of Parliament for Cape Breton—Canso, was also in attendance.

10. Tor Bay Fisheries to construct innovative lobster holding facility

    Investing in Atlantic Canadian small- and medium-sized businesses to become more competitive and innovative helps to create jobs and grow the economy. That is why the Government of Canada is supporting Tor Bay Fisheries Limited to build a live lobster holding facility that will increase its overall sustainability and extend seasonal employment opportunities.

11. Canada and FCM invest in asset management in Nova Scotia communities

    This is why the Government of Canada is investing $100,000 in two new projects in Nova Scotia communities through the Municipal Asset Management Program (MAMP), delivered by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities on behalf of the federal government. The program helps municipalities strengthen local infrastructure planning and decision-making by increasing local asset management capacity through investments in activities such as asset management training, technology and software enhancements and information sharing.

12. Governments of Canada and Manitoba Provide Livestock Producers with Funding Options to Address Dry Conditions on Pasture

    The governments of Canada and Manitoba are advising that livestock producers who have been affected by dry conditions on pasture in Manitoba can apply for funding to support water source development under Ag Action Manitoba.

13. $11.1-million investment to bring high-speed Internet access to nearly 800 households in the Montmagny RCM by September 2022

    Thanks to a total investment of $11.1 million—made as part of Canada–Quebec Operation High Speed, which was announced on March 22—780 households in the Montmagny RCM will have access to Cogeco high-speed Internet services by September 2022.

14. Canada and FCM invest in asset management in New Brunswick communities

    This is why the Government of Canada is investing $150,000 in three new projects in New Brunswick communities through the Municipal Asset Management Program (MAMP), delivered by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities on behalf of the federal government. The program helps municipalities strengthen local infrastructure planning and decision-making by increasing local asset management capacity through investments in activities such as asset management training, technology and software enhancements and information sharing.

15. Parliamentary Secretary Ehsassi to talk about Budget 2021 with Yukon Chamber of Commerce

    Ali Ehsassi, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry (Innovation and Industry), will deliver a speech to the Yukon Chamber of Commerce, followed by a virtual Q&A session on investments announced in Budget 2021: A Recovery Plan for Jobs, Growth, and Resilience.

16. $34.7 million to bring high-speed Internet access to nearly 5,400 households in the Montérégie region by September 2022

    Thanks to a total investment of $34.7 million, made as part of Canada–Quebec Operation High Speed, 5,380 households in the Montérégie region will have access to Cogeco high-speed Internet services by September 2022.

17. Government of Canada announces support for research into mobility and public transit issues

    Today, Andy Fillmore, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Infrastructure and Communities; and Ali Ehsassi, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry (Innovation and Industry), and Dr. Ted Hewitt, President of the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council are pleased to announce the 23 recipients of the Knowledge Synthesis Grants on mobility and public transit, administered through the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC). This announcement is another step forward for smart mobility, public transit funding and research that will deliver triple bottom line results: jobs and economic growth; a cleaner environment; and more inclusive communities.

18. Canada and FCM invest in asset management in Alberta communities

    This is why the Government of Canada is investing $985,500 in 21 new projects in Alberta communities through the Municipal Asset Management Program (MAMP), delivered by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) on behalf of the federal government. The program helps municipalities strengthen local infrastructure planning and decision-making by increasing local asset management capacity through investments in activities such as asset management training, technology and software enhancements, and information sharing.

19. Backgrounder: Helping farmers and agri-businesses adopt clean technologies to reduce emissions and enhance competitiveness

    As part of the Government of Canada’s strengthened climate plan, the new Agricultural Clean Technology Program aims to create a supportive environment for the development and adoption of clean technologies that will promote sustainable growth in Canada’s agriculture sector, while helping to drive the changes required to achieve a low-carbon economy.

20. Helping farmers and agri-businesses adopt clean technologies to reduce emissions and enhance competitiveness

    Today, during Canadian Environment Week, the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, announced details of the new $165.7-million Agricultural Clean Technology Program.

21. Help shape the future of a new national park reserve in Prince Edward Island

    Pituamkek (Hog Island) National Park Reserve

22. Pituamkek National Park Reserve

    Pituamkek (Hog Island) National Park Reserve

23. Minister Bibeau announces support to help spur innovation for Quebec pork producers

    Today, while speaking at the Annual General Meeting of the Éleveurs de porcs du Québec, the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, announced over $922,000 through the AgriScience Program for two Québec pork organizations, which will help advance innovation within the sector.

24. Minister Bibeau and Parliamentary Secretary Ellis launch federal consultations on the Next Agricultural Policy Framework

    Today, the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, and the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Neil Ellis, launched the federal consultation process for the Next Agricultural Policy Framework. They shared Canada’s vision for a sustainable future for the agriculture and agri-food sector in a virtual event with stakeholders.

25. Sydney social enterprise to equip new facility

    Social enterprise organizations are essential for building strong communities and an inclusive, resilient economy for all Canadians. That’s why the Government of Canada is investing to help the Horizon Achievement Centre in Sydney, Nova Scotia improve its facilities and expand its support services for those who face barriers to employment.

26. Governments Providing Additional Supports for Ontario Beekeepers: New intake to grow beekeeping sector and support bee health

    The Governments of Canada and Ontario are launching a new targeted beekeeper intake to support and strengthen the health of managed honey bees and Ontario’s beekeeping sector.

27. Minister Bibeau and Parliamentary Secretary Ellis to launch federal consultations on the Next Agricultural Policy Framework

    The Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, and Parliamentary Secretary Neil Ellis, will give remarks at a live virtual event on the upcoming federal consultations for the Next Agricultural Policy Framework. Minister Bibeau will then host a media availability.

28. $21.65 million to bring high-speed Internet access to over 2,500 households in the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region by September 2022

    Thanks to a total investment of $21.65 million, made as part of Canada–Quebec Operation High Speed, 2,560 households in the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region will have access to Bell high-speed Internet services by September 2022.

29. The government of Canada and the government of Quebec announced the addition of organic businesses to the groups eligible for the increase in maximum assistance

    The Federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Marie-Claude Bibeau, and Quebec’s Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, André Lamontagne, announced that businesses under organic production or in transition to organic production are now also eligible for the increase in the maximum assistance granted under the Advisory Services Program to simplify access to assistance measures and to increase the impact on agricultural and agri-food businesses.

30. Poultry and egg producers can now apply for compensation funds to boost competitiveness

    Canada's supply-managed poultry and egg farmers are part of the backbone of the Canadian agriculture sector and the Canadian economy. Despite the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, they continue to produce high-quality products for Canadians and keep our rural communities competitive and resilient.

31. Regional Tourism Associations in Central PEI work with local operators to boost tourism

    Tourism operators continue to demonstrate great resilience and innovation in the face of pandemic realities. The Government of Canada is investing in the sector to help Atlantic Canadian tourism organizations and operators develop new products and fresh approaches to delivering world-class tourism experiences.

32. Government of Canada invests $6.9 million to improve high-speed Internet connectivity and affordability to over 9,800 homes in Nunavut

    The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted how much we rely on our connections. Now more than ever, Canadians across the country need access to reliable high-speed Internet to work, learn and connect with friends and family from home.

33. Government of Canada invests over $192,000 to bring high-speed Internet to 113 more homes in Vaughan and East Gwillimbury

    The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted that too many Canadians in rural and remote communities lack access to high-speed Internet.

34. Statement from Minister Champagne regarding the CRTC wholesale access rates decision

    The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, made the following statement:

35. Central Prince Edward Island’s fish and seafood processors get support from the Canadian Seafood Stabilization Fund

    Atlantic Canada’s fish and seafood sector has faced significant challenges and financial hardship since the downturn in the economy due to COVID-19.

36. Minister Bibeau announces appointments and reappointments to Farm Credit Canada

    Today, the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, announced three appointments and two reappointments to Farm Credit Canada’s (FCC) Board of Directors. These individuals have extensive backgrounds in agriculture and are active members in their communities.

37. Biographies - Farm Credit Canada

    With over 25 years of experience within the insurance, investment and pension consulting environments, Ms. Hengen has built a strong career as an actuarial professional. She has assumed roles with increasing professional responsibilities over the years, culminating in her role of Chief Risk Officer for a national multi-line insurance and investment group of companies.

38. Government of Canada invests nearly $3.2 million to bring high-speed Internet to 689 more homes in the Thunder Bay region

    The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted how much we rely on our connections. Now more than ever, Canadians across the country need access to reliable high-speed Internet as many of us are working, learning, and staying in touch with friends and family from home.

39. Bluenose centennial celebrations underway

    Lunenburg Marine Museum Society event series celebrates 100th anniversary of schooner’s launch

40. Government of Canada investment helps keep maple syrup exports pouring into key markets

    During her visit to the Québec Maple Syrup Producers Annual General Meeting, the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, the Honorable Marie-Claude Bibeau, announced an investment of $1.76 million over the next two years (2021-2023) to support the export efforts of Quebec’s maple industry.

41. Government of Canada to announce support for Bluenose Centennial Celebrations

    Government of Canada to announce support for Bluenose Centennial Celebrations

42. Minister Bibeau launches second half of $20-million Food Waste Reduction Challenge

    Today, the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, and the Member of Parliament for Burnaby North–Seymour, Terry Beech, hosted a virtual event to launch the novel technology streams of Canada's Food Waste Reduction Challenge, an initiative under the Food Policy for Canada.

43. Government of Canada launches two calls for proposals to improve financial well-being and social inclusion of vulnerable Canadians

    The Minister of Families, Children and Social Development, Ahmed Hussen, accompanied by Peter Fragiskatos, Member of Parliament for London North Centre, and Kate Young, Member of Parliament for London West, will announce the launch of two calls for proposals. These proposals will fund projects that support the most vulnerable people in communities across Canada.

44. Government of Canada invests $7.7 million to bring high-speed Internet to over 2,800 more homes in southwestern Ontario

    The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted how much we rely on our connections. Now more than ever, Canadians across the country need access to reliable high-speed Internet as many of us are working, learning, and staying in touch with friends and family from home.

45. Minister Bibeau announces investment to strengthen trust in Canadian agriculture

    Today, the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, announced an investment of over $244,000 to support the Canadian Centre for Food Integrity’s (CCFI) work to build public trust in Canada’s food system.

46. Western Prince Edward Island’s fish and seafood processors get support from the Canadian Seafood Stabilization Fund

    Atlantic Canada’s fish and seafood sector has faced significant challenges and financial hardship since the downturn in the economy due to COVID-19. That is why the Government of Canada is helping fish and seafood processors navigate these difficult times with support through the Canadian Seafood Stabilization Fund.

47. Government of Canada investment helping the fish and seafood sector in Western Prince Edward Island remain strong

    The workforce of Canada’s fish and seafood processing sector is an economic driver in coastal and rural communities, and is vital to the national food supply chain. The sector faced immense challenges due to COVID-19, and the Government of Canada worked quickly to ensure it had the support it needed during this unprecedented time.

48. $2.1 million to bring high-speed Internet to nearly 140 households in the Portneuf RCM by September 2022

    Thanks to a total investment of $2.1 million, made as part of Canada–Quebec Operation High Speed, 140 households in the Portneuf RCM will have access to TELUS high-speed Internet services by September 2022.

49. Mulgrave residents to benefit from an additional $1.4 million for the construction of a new wastewater management facility

    Today, Mike Kelloway, Member of Parliament for Cape Breton-Canso, on behalf of the Honourable Maryam Monsef, Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Rural Economic Development, the Honourable Lloyd Hines, Minister of Transportation and Active Transit on behalf of the Honourable Brendan Maguire, Minister of Municipal Affairs, and His Worship Ron Chisholm, Mayor of the Town of Mulgrave, announced additional funding and the upcoming breaking of ground for a new wastewater treatment facility in the Town of Mulgrave.

50. $1.67 million to bring high-speed Internet to more than 300 households in the La Mitis RCM by September 2022

    Thanks to a $1.67-million joint investment made as part of Canada–Quebec Operation High Speed, 310 households in the La Mitis RCM will have access to high-speed Internet services by September 2022. The project will be implemented by TELUS.