Canada Supports Tourism and Wildlife Research

CanNor-09-027

Whitehorse, Yukon (March 26, 2010) - The Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency is supporting Yukon tourism and research capacity with funding for the Yukon Wildlife Preserve.

The Honourable Chuck Strahl, Minister of the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor), made the announcement today.

CanNor will provide the Yukon Government with nearly $2 million for the design and construction of a new animal research and rehabilitation centre at the Yukon Wildlife Preserve. An estimated 137 person-months of employment will be created during the design and construction of this new facility and up to 1.5 new positions on an ongoing basis.

“Visitors from around the world come to enjoy the natural attractions of the Yukon Wildlife Preserve, making it a key asset to the local tourism economy,” said Minister Strahl, who is also Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor of Métis and Non-Status Indians. “This project will no doubt enhance that experience for tourists and Yukoners alike.”

“I am proud of our Government's commitment to the North,” said the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister Responsible for the North and Minister of Health. “Today's investment will increase the research capacity of the Yukon Wildlife Preserve, create local jobs, and encourage new educational opportunities for residents.”

“The Yukon Wildlife Preserve already provides educational, research and wildlife viewing opportunities while providing a safe and healthy environment for wildlife in their care,” said the Honourable John Edzerza, Yukon Minister of the Environment. “We value the federal investment that will enhance the quality of care provided to the many injured birds and mammals Yukoners bring to the preserve for rehabilitation.”

“Having proper examination and recovery space will make it much easier to treat animals safely and efficiently, and will help us to expand our collaboration with other wildlife veterinarians, researchers and students,” said Kim Porter, president of the Yukon Wildlife Preserve Operating Society.

Funding for this project is from the Community Adjustment Fund (CAF), part of Canada's Economic Action Plan . The CAF program is administered in the territories by CanNor, a newly established agency responsible for coordinating and delivering federal economic development activities in the territories, and for related policy development, research and advocacy.

Backgrounder - Support for Yukon Wildlife Preserve

For further information please contact:

Office of the Honourable Chuck Strahl
Michelle Yao
Press Secretary
(819) 997-0002

Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor)
Kathleen McLeod
Senior Communications Advisor
(613) 995-7766

Government of Yukon
Nancy Campbell
Communications Officer
Environment Yukon
867-456-6794

Yukon Wildlife Preserve
Krista Prochazka
Executive Director
867-456-7313