RED LAKE – An investment of $2.7 million in Red Lake will support the gas pipeline project. The project will support engineering, design and construction costs related to establishing a natural gas link to service businesses, as well as residences in the community. The project builds on current efforts by the municipality, Goldcorp, and Union Gas to extend a natural gas pipeline from the Griffith mine site, north of Ear Falls, to the Goldcorp mines.
Tony Clement, Minister for FedNor, and Greg Rickford, Member of Parliament for Kenora have announced an investment to support business development, help create jobs and support economic growth in the Red Lake region. FedNor funding will help bring natural gas services to Red Lake’s business and commercial districts. More than 180 local businesses are forecast to be connected within the first five years.
“The Harper Government is committed to supporting initiatives that enhance business competitiveness and attract private sector investment to the community,” said Minister Clement. “This initiative will help reduce energy costs for local businesses and act as a catalyst for growth in the commercial sector.”
“With increased mining activity in the region, today’s investments will help Red Lake take advantage of new economic development and job opportunities,” added Greg Rickford. “Our Government is focused on providing communities and businesses with the tools they need to compete in the global marketplace.”
“Thanks to this FedNor support, the pipeline extension project – a community priority since 1999 – is becoming a reality,” said Phil Vinet, Mayor of Red Lake. “This is a win-win situation that will result in cost savings for local businesses, create an estimated 120 jobs and generate new opportunities for businesses throughout the region.”
“We are extremely pleased to begin the process of bringing natural gas service to Red Lake and the surrounding communities,” said Steve Baker, President of Union Gas. “The federal and provincial governments, Goldcorp, the Municipality of Red Lake and Union Gas worked closely to make this project a reality. Union Gas strives to be a partner of choice in the communities we serve, and we look forward to a long and successful partnership with the community.”
The funding announced will be provided through FedNor’s Northern Ontario Development Program, which supports projects that strengthen community economic development, enhance business growth, and facilitate innovation throughout the region.