Harper Government Celebrates Economic Action Plan Investments in Canada's Knowledge Economy

VICTORIA, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwire - March 15, 2011) - The Honourable Gary Lunn, Minister of State (Sport), was at Camosun College's Interurban Campus in Victoria today to tour the newly renovated library that has provided students with more computers, a greater study space area and a more welcoming learning environment. This project is part of the Harper Government's investment in the renewal and expansion of laboratories, learning commons and student facilities at colleges and universities across Canada.

"The economy remains our government's top priority," said Minister of State Lunn. "Through Canada's Economic Action Plan, we are investing in research and training facilities at campuses across the country to create jobs, help our economy recover quickly and improve the quality of life of Canadians. This investment is promoting local employment now and will provide the infrastructure Camosun College needs for years to come."

The project, which also included renovations to the college's Lansdowne Campus learning commons, received a Government of Canada investment of $1.9 million through the Knowledge Infrastructure Program, an important job creation program launched in 2009 to help respond to the global economic recession under Canada's Economic Action Plan. The British Columbia government contributed $2.1 million to the project.

"Thanks to Knowledge Infrastructure Program funding and generous support from donors, our old libraries have been completely transformed into vibrant, new award-winning learning spaces," said Baldev Pooni, Vice President, Education and Student Services, Camosun College. "Students are enthusiastically making the place home."

The $4-million project helped fund major renovations to Camosun College's two campuses. At the Interurban Campus, the funding allowed the college to completely refurbish the library, increase access to computer workstations, expand the group study area and provide quiet study space. The new facilities at the Lansdowne Campus also included an electronic classroom, group study areas and new computer lab facilities.

As part of Canada's Economic Action Plan, the Government of Canada introduced the Knowledge Infrastructure Program, a $2-billion economic stimulus measure to maintain and improve research and training facilities at Canadian universities, colleges and CEGEPs. The program is providing economic stimulus, creating jobs and generating the advanced technological infrastructure needed to keep Canadian institutions at the forefront of scientific advancement and ensure economic growth in the future.

Canada's Economic Action Plan is investing in Canada's universities and colleges to develop, attract and retain the world's best and brightest researchers. The Government's actions will strengthen Canada's position as a leading destination for the world's top research talent.

For more information on the Knowledge Infrastructure Program, visit the Knowledge Infrastructure Program website (www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/696.nsf/eng/home).

For information on Canada's Economic Action Plan, visit the Canada's Economic Action Plan website (www.actionplan.gc.ca/eng/index.asp).