The federal government is increasing the budget in the prairies for regional economic development, which is aimed at creating local entrepreneur opportunities, similar to the Ile-a-la-Crosse Fish Company.
Ottawa invested approximately $1.3 million in 2017 to help the Fish Company construct and equip the facility.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau toured the facility virtually Friday and met with community leaders to discuss the Fish Company’s successes.
“It was really an opportunity to see how much of an impact regional investments, like the ones that federal government made there and really had not just on one company, but on an entire community. And indeed, in terms of jobs and the growing industry,” said the Prime Minister.
In July 2019, the Wollaston Lake Fishery closed affecting 25 jobs in Prince Albert and Wollaston Lake. The closure was cited due to high transportation costs as there was a lack of an all-weather road into Wollaston Lake.
However, it appears the Ile-a-la-Crosse Fish Company is looking to increase its demand for fish.
“They were very pleased that they had good distribution deals, but always looking for more. I think we had a good conversation about the possibility of opening up new seasons and fishing in the summer as well. That requires more equipment than the than the winter fishing they usually do,” explained Mr. Trudeau.
As Ottawa continues with its COVID-19 distribution, the Prime Minister is encouraging everyone to get immunized, stating that is the path for returning to near normal.
Mr. Trudeau also spoke to the need to continue pandemic supports to the country as it begins to emerge from public health restrictions.
“For us through the pandemic, we made a promise that we’d have people’s back,” said Mr. Trudeau. “Eight out of every $10 spent on COVID supports was spent by the federal government. We were there for people. We also knew that giving people the support, they needed to make it through this tough time, would make it easiest for our entire economy to come roaring back once we’re through.”
(Photo: Ile-a-la-Crosse Fish Company. Courtesy of Facebook.)