$1.6 Million to Regional Development Authorities
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT--$1.6 Million to Regional Development Authorities
Nova Scotia's regional development authorities (RDAs) have been given a renewed commitment, and a cheque for $1.6 million, by the provincial government. MLA Mark Parent announced the provincial investment today, May 31, on behalf of Gordon Balser, Minister of the Office of Economic Development. The announcement took place in Hall's Harbour, Kings Co.
"RDAs have been driving economic growth in their communities for eight years now, and they have developed an impressive track record," said Mr. Parent. "They've developed long-range plans that require long-term funding to ensure their success. We're pledging our ongoing commitment to their activities."
Each of the 13 regional development authorities will receive $125,000 in funding this year, $100,000 of which will be provided by the Office of Economic Development. A further $25,000 will be contributed by Community Services through the department's Employment Support Services division.
The Office of Economic Development has committed similar support for the next five years, subject to a yearly review and budget allocation.
"By supporting the work of the RDAs, we are strengthening the ability of our communities to create new opportunities throughout the province," said Mr. Parent. "Today's announcement is another example of our growth strategy at work."
Community Services' funding recognizes the role of the RDAs in supporting community enterprise development, business development and human resource development. Community Services Minister Peter Christie said the RDAs' role in promoting self-sufficiency fits well with his department's goals.
"Community Services is pleased to be funding RDAs this year as we have for the past three years," said Mr. Christie. "Our whole thrust is to encourage self-sufficiency. RDAs play a significant role by identifying opportunities for people on income assistance. Opportunities for jobs or participation in community projects promote self-reliance at the community level, where it's most effective."
RDAs are supported by, and collaborate with, the private sector and all three levels of government. They work with communities across the province to plan and develop economically sustainable initiatives that are consistent with each community's values and assets.
Hall's Harbour is a good example of the impact RDAs are having on their communities. Several years ago, the small fishing village faced two challenges: a shattered wharf and steadily increasing tourist traffic, which it was unequipped to handle. The collaboration of the Kings Community Economic Development Agency, the harbour authority and community members has resulted in a public parking lot for tour buses, a boardwalk and a new state- of-the-art glass-fibre reinforced wharf that's expected to last 90 years, three times the normal lifespan of a wharf. This technology was developed in Nova Scotia and is now being used in Central America.
"Our RDAs have been working diligently on clearly defining our communities' goals and the means of achieving them," said Eileen Lannon Oldford, chair of the Nova Scotia Association of Regional Development Authorities. "Today's announcement of the province's commitment will greatly assist us in reaching these goals."
A tour of the Hall's Harbour commercial wharf, museum wharf, lobster pound and boardwalk followed the announcement.