Smith-Ennismore-Lakefield Celebrates Government of Canada Ontario Potable Water Program Grant

BRIDGENORTH, Ontario, June 13, 2008 — Dean Del Mastro, Member of Parliament for Peterborough, celebrated the $331,891 Ontario Potable Water Program (OPWP) grant awarded to the Township of Smith-Ennismore-Lakefield.

The OPWP, announced in February 2008, provides up to $50 million in financial support to promote local economic development in municipalities that have experienced increased costs for their Canada-Ontario Infrastructure Program (COIP) water projects to comply with changes to Ontario drinking water regulations.

"Through this program, the Government of Canada is fostering a growing economy and a cleaner environment for the people of Smith-Ennismore-Lakefield," said MP Del Mastro.

"This grant helps us to address our local economic needs," said Ron Millen, Reeve of the Township of Smith-Ennismore-Lakefield. "We are pleased that the Government of Canada announced this additional financing."

Municipalities may be considered for financial support under the program upon completion of their COIP drinking water projects. As projects are completed, Industry Canada officials will contact these municipalities directly to confirm their eligibility and interest in applying for the OPWP. Once applications are assessed, municipalities will be informed and grants will be announced. Financial support under the OPWP must be delivered to municipalities by March 31, 2011.

For more information on the OPWP, please visit http://www.ic.gc.ca.

For more information, please contact:

Laryssa Waler
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Tony Clement
613-957-0200

Media Relations
Industry Canada
613-943-2502