OREANDA-NEWS. August 01, 2016. The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Status of Women, and Member of Parliament for Thunder Bay—Superior North, on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, and Minister responsible for FedNor, today congratulated the Township of Nipigon on the grand opening of its splash pad, a new addition to the community's Paddle to the Sea Park.

The Government of Canada, through FedNor, contributed \\$66,000 toward the community attraction that will provide a free, accessible area for community residents and visitors alike to cool off on warm summer days. The funding is provided through the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program (CIP150), which is part of the Government of Canada's coordinated approach to mark the 150th anniversary of Confederation.

Quick facts

  • Canada CIP 150 is designed to leave a lasting legacy by supporting the rehabilitation or improvement of existing community infrastructure assets and facilities across the country that promote community and cultural benefits for the public.
  • FedNor is delivering this program in Northern Ontario with an allocation of \\$10.4 million over two years, ending March 31, 2018.
  • The Paddle to the Sea Park, which was completed in 2010 with FedNor support, is based on a children's book of the same name, chronicling the adventures of a wooden carved man in a canoe once released in Lake Superior. The award-winning book was developed into an Oscar-nominated film produced by the National Film Board in 1966.

Quotes

"The Government of Canada is proud to partner with communities across the country like Nipigon to renovate, expand and improve cultural and regional infrastructure to be enjoyed by all for years to come. The funding announced today adds a new dimension to the park and pays tribute to Canadian literature, culture, history and geography."

– The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, and Minister responsible for FedNor

"I am proud of the role that the Government of Canada has played in enhancing the Paddle to the Sea Park. It not only builds on a community asset, it promotes a healthy lifestyle, and is a fitting way to celebrate Canada's 150th anniversary."

– The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Status of Women, and Member of Parliament for Thunder Bay—Superior North

"On behalf of the entire community, I would like to thank the Government of Canada and FedNor for investing in this special infrastructure project that is sure to be a big hit with children of all ages. Furthermore, the splash pad will help us attract tourists and promote further recreation."

– Richard Harvey, Mayor of Nipigon