VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA -- (Marketwire) -- 01/17/13 -- Today, Andrew Saxton, Parliamentary Secretary to the President of the Treasury Board and for Western Economic Diversification, and Member of Parliament for North Vancouver, on behalf of the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification, announced support for the Japanese Community Volunteers Association (Tonari Gumi) under the Harper Government's Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund (CIIF).

"Our Government is committed to creating jobs, growth and long-term prosperity in our communities across Canada," said PS Saxton. "By making these investments in local infrastructure, we are helping boost economic activity and maintain a high quality of life for Canadians."

The Harper Government's investment of $210,090 will enhance the services provided by the Japanese Community Volunteers Association and will create jobs. Upgrades to the Centre will include renovating the lounge, kitchen, multi-purpose room, washrooms, and library areas to improve the building's safety and make it accessible for people of all abilities.

"We are extremely appreciative of the support which we will be receiving from the federal government," stated Joji Kumagai, Chair of the Japanese Community Volunteers Association (Tonari Gumi). "With this funding, we will be able to create a larger and more accessible facility for a greater number of our seniors and others needing assistance within the community."

In Economic Action Plan 2012, the Harper Government announced further support to help communities across the country modernize their infrastructure. Our Government committed $150 million over two years for the Fund. The Fund supports projects that look to improve existing community infrastructure accessible for use by the public, such as community centres, recreational buildings, local arenas, cultural and other community facilities.

Since 2006, the Harper Government, through WD, has invested in job-creating small- and medium-sized businesses, aerospace, marine and defence industries, and supported innovative entrepreneurs in pursuing emerging markets. By continuing to promote new economic opportunities, WD is helping to create jobs, economic growth, and long-term prosperity.

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