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November 9, 2005

Campbell River prepares to welcome cruise ship

Campbell River, British Columbia – North America's only cruise ship terminal with a First Nations theme is one step closer to becoming a reality with an investment of $9 million from the Government of Canada. The Honourable Stephen Owen, Minister of Western Economic Diversification and Minister of State (Sport) made the announcement in Campbell River today. Indian and Northern Affairs Canada will provide $6 million and Western Economic Diversification will provide $3 million for the construction of the terminal.

"It is vital that British Columbia has the infrastructure necessary to capitalize on the growing opportunities within the cruise ship and the tourism industry, " said Minister Owen. "With this new terminal, Campbell River will soon be a destination of choice for travellers around the world."

"The Government of Canada is committed to working with First Nations to support community economic development," said Andy Scott, Minister of the Department of Indian Affairs and Northern Development. "The initiative shown by the Campbell River Indian Band is a testament to their commitment to build a strong economy for their members while creating opportunities that provide benefits for their neighbours and the region."

The new Campbell River Cruise Ship Terminal will be an international port of call for cruise ships worldwide, representing a new cultural tourism opportunity for the Campbell River Indian Band. By accommodating the larger cruise ship vessels, the community of Campbell River can capitalize on the economic benefits brought by visitors from around the world. The Terminal will complement British Columbia's cruise ship industry, which is currently Canada's leading cruise ship centre. Campbell River is situated within the Discovery Passage, which makes it a perfect destination port facility.

"The Campbell River Indian Band is extremely excited about this announcement. We have put a lot of hard work into making this dream a reality. It will strengthen both our community and the communities that surround us," said Robert Pollard, Chief of the Campbell River Indian Band. "It will allow us to showcase our heritage with pride."

The Campbell River Indian Band is located on Vancouver Island and has a population of 600 members, approximately half of that number lives on the reserve. The Band has played a significant role in the growth and development of the local area and region over the past few years and is the region's largest employer. The Band's development of the highly successful Discovery Harbour Centre and Marina in the late 1990's, the largest commercial project in Campbell River, symbolizes the Band's efforts to play a major role in Campbell River's economy.

Western Economic Diversification Canada is the federal department mandated to support economic diversification in communities across Western Canada through activities that advance Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Sustainable Communities. Indian and Northern Affairs Canada, through its economic development programs, is helping to foster strong First Nation communities and economies by facilitating partnerships with the private sector, reducing obstacles and increasing access to economic opportunities. Funding for this project was provided for in the February 2005 federal budget.

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