BERESFORD (CNB) – A curling rink in Beresford will be renovated to enable it to host public markets in the spring, summer and fall, thanks to investments by the federal, provincial and municipal governments.

“Our government's investment will provide an opportunity for local producers to showcase and sell their goods and products to area residents and visitors to the region," said Economic Development Minister Paul Robichaud.

"This public market will feature products from regional producers, food prepared by our local entrepreneurs, and works by local artists,” said Minister of State for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) and La Francophonie Bernard Valcourt. “This market will meet the needs of area residents and will help attract new visitors to the region. Projects like this one contribute to economic growth and create jobs, which are our government's top priorities."

The project includes renovations to a 975 sq. metre (10,500 sq. ft) curling rink to host a new public market, which will serve the needs of farmers and residents of various communities in the Chaleur Region.

"The Town of Beresford is very happy to get financial support from the federal and provincial governments," said Beresford Mayor Raoul Charest. "We have been working on the Beresford public market project since 2005, and today's announcement acknowledges the dedication of everyone involved who have worked so hard to make it a reality."

The federal government, through ACOA, is contributing $167,500 to the project under the Innovative Communities Fund (ICF), while the provincial government is investing $187,500. The Town of Beresford is contributing $43,750.




09-11-11