Better quality trails for an enhanced cross-country ski experience in the Pontiac regional county municipality

The Government of Canada awards more than $19,000 in financial assistance to the Patro de Fort-Coulonge/Mansfield outdoor recreation centre

MANSFIELD-ET-PONTEFRACT, QC, Feb. 12, 2019 /CNW Telbec/ - Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions (CED)

The Patro de Fort-Coulonge/Mansfield outdoor recreation centre provides 10 kilometres of hiking and cross-country ski trails for winter sport enthusiasts in the Pontiac regional county municipality. To continue ensuring skiers' safety and to improve the quality of the trails, the organization will receive a non-repayable contribution of $19,101 from Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions (CED). This financial assistance will be used to purchase a crawler tractor and a groomer/resurfacer for mechanical trail maintenance.

The funding was announced today by William Amos, Member of Parliament for Pontiac, on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for CED. The Government of Canada's assistance will help ensure the quality and longevity of the cross-country ski trails maintained by the Patro de Fort-Coulonge/Mansfield outdoor recreation centre. In addition to enhancing the skiers' experience and improving safety out on the trails, this support for the development of winter tourism in the region will help create more good middle-class jobs and stimulate economic growth in the surrounding communities.

The funding was awarded under the Winter Tourism Initiative of CED's Quebec Economic Development Program. This initiative supports the purchase of equipment for maintaining snowmobile trails or cross-country ski trails. With a budget of $10 million in effect until March 31, 2020, it aims to increase the regional benefits generated by tourists from outside Quebec.

Le Patro de Fort-Coulonge/Mansfield is a non-profit organization that was founded to meet the needs of young people, teenagers, adults and the elderly. Located on the shores of the Ottawa River on an extensive property boasting over 350 acres of forest, beaches and fields, Le Patro offers activities year-round. It is dedicated to the growth and development of its clients through its sports, cultural, extracurricular, social and craft activities.

The Government of Canada does not hesitate to support recreational, cultural or sports-related projects that have a positive impact on local tourism and the local economy, that further showcase the unique attractions around us and that resonate far beyond Outaouais.

Quotes
"I am thrilled about CED's support as part of this initiative, which will certainly make winter sport enthusiasts and our local tourism businesses very happy. Tourism infrastructure, such as cross‑country ski trails, helps make our region more attractive and stimulates economic activity."

William Amos, Member of Parliament for Pontiac

"Tourism is a very significant activity sector for Quebec's regions, and the Government of Canada is working hard to make it profitable for everyone. There is no doubt that the Winter Tourism Initiative will create jobs and generate wealth for the regions, while helping showcase all Quebec communities."

The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister responsible for CED

Quick facts

• CED is one of the six regional development agencies under the responsibility of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development.
• For more information on CED and its priorities, consult the 2018–2019 Departmental Plan or visit www.dec-ced.gc.ca.
• For 50 years now, the Government of Canada has been actively participating in regional economic development in Quebec: half a century of concrete action dedicated to the development of the regions and local businesses.

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SOURCE Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions

For further information: Media Relations, Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions, 514-283-7443, [e-mail]