Latest news with #PrairiesEconomicDevelopmentCanada
Cision Canada
4 days ago
- Politics
- Cision Canada
Statement from Minister Olszewski regarding wildfires in Saskatchewan Français
OTTAWA, ON, /CNW/ - Today, the Honourable Eleanor Olszewski, Minister of Emergency Management and Community Resilience and Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada, issued the following statement: "The wildfires currently burning across the province of Saskatchewan continue to pose a significant risk to many communities, some of which have been ordered to evacuate. Today, in my capacity as Minister of Emergency Management, I approved a Request for Federal Assistance from the Government of Saskatchewan. We will be providing Saskatchewan with additional firefighters to mitigate the wildfires, and helicopters to transport critical personnel. The Government Operations Centre is working with the Canadian Armed Forces, and other federal and provincial partners, to deploy all necessary resources, and ensure the province of Saskatchewan has the support needed. I am truly grateful to the firefighters, first responders, emergency management officials, and local volunteers for their unwavering dedication in helping those affected by the wildfires. I remain in close contact with my counterpart in Saskatchewan. During these difficult times, we are here and ready to support." Associated Links Stay Connected Follow Public Safety Canada on X, LinkedIn and YouTube Follow Get Prepared on X Follow Emergency Ready in Canada on Facebook
Cision Canada
6 days ago
- Politics
- Cision Canada
Reflecting on one year since the Jasper wildfire Français
The Government of Canada stands with Jasperites as work continues to rebuild the beautiful mountain community of Jasper and Jasper National Park JASPER, AB, July 22, 2025 /CNW/ - One year ago, emergency responders, community members, visitors, friends, and neighbours all banded together to safely evacuate more than 20,000 people from Jasper and Jasper National Park. Those heroic efforts were the beginning of a long road for the community. Within days, multiple wildfires would converge to take the life of a brave firefighter, destroy over 30 per cent of the structures in Jasper, uproot the lives of residents and workers, and leave a lasting impact on the landscape. Today, the Honourable Eleanor Olszewski, Minister of Emergency Management and Community Resilience and Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada, joined Jasperites to reflect, to grieve, and to remember. At the commemorative event, Minister Olszewski paid tribute to the tremendous courage, strength, and resiliency that community members have shown over the past year, while also acknowledging the ongoing commitment to collaboration by countless people and organizations to assist Jasper to build back stronger. Quotes "As we mark one year since wildfires devastated the town of Jasper, I was pleased to join members of the community in this solemn commemoration. Today, all Canadians stand with Jasper as we commemorate the courage and resilience of this proud community and continue our collective work in rebuilding Jasper as the vibrant, caring, and welcoming community for which it is known throughout the world." –The Honourable Eleanor Olszewski, Minister of Emergency Management and Community Resilience and Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada "One year after the wildfires, we want to acknowledge the resilience and courage of Jasperites. In the face of profound loss, this community has united with remarkable determination and solidarity we honour today. Our new government remains committed to supporting Jasper and its residents — working hand in hand with the community and all levels of government to provide meaningful support, restore hope, and help Jasper rebuild the future they deserve." – The Honourable Stephen Guilbeault, Minister responsible for Parks Canada, Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages Quick facts The Government of Canada has invested more than $383 million to support firefighting, recovery, and rebuilding efforts in Jasper and Jasper National Park. With the support of federal funds and in collaboration with other orders of government and partners: 354 units of interim housing have been made available accommodating over 260 households and 510 individuals. Federal funding was recently announced to help cover uninsured costs associated with soil testing and remediation that is required before Jasper residents can rebuild homes on their property. A Pop-up Village was launched in the commercial core of Jasper, enabling seven local businesses to continue operations in the community. The Jasper Business Recovery program was delivered through Community Futures West Yellowhead in partnership with PrairiesCan to provide non-repayable funding to enable small and medium-sized businesses to stabilize and rebuild. Associated links Stay connected Follow PrairiesCan on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X Toll-Free Number: 1-888-338-9378 TTY (telecommunications device for the hearing impaired): 1-877-303-3388 SOURCE Prairies Economic Development Canada
Cision Canada
13-07-2025
- Politics
- Cision Canada
Statement from Minister Olszewski regarding wildfires in Manitoba Français
OTTAWA, ON, /CNW/ - Today, the Honourable Eleanor Olszewski, Minister of Emergency Management and Community Resilience and Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada, issued the following statement: "Major wildfires continue to spread in Manitoba, threatening communities and forcing the need for evacuations across the province. Yesterday evening, in my capacity as Minister of Emergency Management, I approved an additional Request for Federal Assistance from the Government of Manitoba, this one to provide humanitarian workforce support for emergency evacuation and sheltering activities. The Government Operations Centre continues to work with the Canadian Armed Forces, federal and provincial partners, and humanitarian organizations to deliver the support Manitoba needs. On behalf of all Canadians, I once again wish to thank everyone helping to keep people across the country safe during this wildfire season, including firefighters, first responders, emergency management officials, humanitarian organizations and local volunteers. I am in regular contact with my counterpart in Manitoba. Our government will act fast if more help is needed." Associated Links Stay Connected Follow Public Safety Canada on X, LinkedIn and YouTube Follow Get Prepared on X Follow Emergency Ready in Canada on Facebook
Cision Canada
11-07-2025
- Business
- Cision Canada
Canada and Alberta invest $203 million for affordable housing Français
EDMONTON, AB, July 11, 2025 /CNW/ - Solving Canada's housing crisis requires immediate action to bring down costs. To provide Canadians with increased access to affordable and sustainable housing, the governments of Canada and Alberta today announced funding of $203 million to help build over 2,300 affordable housing units across the province. This investment is cost-matched by both governments thanks to the Canada – Alberta Bilateral Agreement under the National Housing Strategy. This funding is delivered through Alberta's Affordable Housing Partnership Program (AHPP). The announcement was made by the Honourable Eleanor Olszewski, Minister of Emergency Management and Community Resilience, Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada, and Member of Parliament for Edmonton Centre, and the Honourable Jason Nixon, Minister of Assisted Living and Social Services. All of the project proposals were assessed based on the local community needs and ability to achieve outcomes for Albertans with low income, as well as value for taxpayer money. Types of projects can include building new housing, mixed-income developments with an affordable and/or social housing component or specialised housing, an addition or renovation of existing housing resulting in a minimum of five net new affordable housing units, conversion of non-rental housing, re-development of an existing site involving demolition and new construction. As we build a strong Canadian housing sector, purposeful collaboration will be essential. That means working hand-in-hand with the non-profit sector to bring down costs and build homes at a scale and speed not seen since the Second World War. Quotes: "We're building a new generation of housing, using every tool available to build homes at a scale not seen since the Second World War. Partnerships are necessary for building homes that Canadians need. These funds will ensure that Albertans have an affordable place to call home in the years ahead." – The Honourable Gregor Robertson, Minister of Housing and Infrastructure "Our government's bilateral agreement with the government of Alberta has allowed us to work together to build a new and better generation of community and social housing across the province. Complex issues demand innovative solutions, and this strong partnership is necessary for quickly building homes that Canadians need now." – The Honourable Eleanor Olszewski, Minister of Emergency Management and Community Resilience, Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada, and Member of Parliament for Edmonton Centre "Alberta's government is focused on results. We're getting shovels in the ground and roofs over Albertans' heads. With this record investment, thousands more low-income Albertans will have a safe, affordable home they can count on, so they can move forward with dignity and stability." – Jason Nixon, Minister of Assisted Living and Social Services Quick Facts: The National Housing Strategy (NHS) is a 10+ year, $115+ billion plan to give more Canadians a place to call home. Progress on programs and initiatives are updated quarterly on the Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada (HICC) website. The Housing and Infrastructure Project Map shows affordable housing projects that have been developed. As of March 2025, the federal government has committed $65.84 billion to support the creation of over 166,000 units and the repair of over 322,000 units. These measures prioritize those in greatest need, including seniors, Indigenous Peoples, people experiencing or at risk of homelessness, and women and children fleeing violence NHS is built on strong partnerships between the federal, provincial, and territorial governments, and continuous engagement with others, including municipalities, Indigenous governments and organizations, and the social and private housing sectors. This includes consultations with Canadians from all walks of life, and people with lived experience of housing need. All NHS investments delivered by the federal, provincial, and territorial governments will respect the key principles of NHS that support partnerships, people, and communities Projects funded in today's announcement include: Edmonton $6 million for 12621665 Canada Association to build affordable housing. $20 million for Civida to build mixed-use, mixed-income affordable housing. $4.05 million for Williams Hall to build mixed-use affordable housing with a focus to support young adults, students, and individuals facing rental barriers. $6.69 million for Brentwood Family Housing Society to build affordable housing for families. $4.67 million for The Mustard Seed Foundation to build supportive housing. Calgary $28.6 million for Calhome Properties to build mixed-income affordable housing. $30.5 million for Onward Homes Society to build three affordable housing projects. $13 million for 800 GP Corporation to convert a vacant office tower into affordable housing. $22 million for Calgary Heritage Housing to build three buildings for seniors self-contained units. $3.5 million for Attainable Homes Calgary to build mixed-use, mixed-income affordable housing. $7.54 million for Liberty Housing Organization to build mixed-use affordable housing. $3.08 million for Victory Outreach Foundation to convert a hotel to affordable housing. $6.2 million for Homespace Society to build affordable housing. $2.7 million for the City of Calgary to build mixed-income, mixed-use affordable housing. Other $14.5 million for Homeland Housing to build affordable housing in St. Albert. $8.84 million for Heartland Housing Foundation to build affordable housing in Sherwood Park. $6.43 million for the Town of Banff to build affordable housing. $5.53 million for the Municipality of Jasper to build phase two of its affordable housing project. $3.3 million for Westwinds Communities to build affordable housing in Okotoks. $3.5 million for Truth North Society to build affordable housing in Strathmore. $2.5 million for Canadian Rockies School Division to build affordable housing in Canmore. Land transfer for Heartland Housing Foundation to build affordable housing in Fort Saskatchewan. Additional Information: Visit for the most-requested Government of Canada housing information. CMHC plays a critical role as a national facilitator to promote stability and sustainability in Canada's housing finance system. Our mortgage insurance products support access to homeownership and the creation and maintenance of rental supply. We also actively support the Government of Canada in delivering on its commitment to make housing more affordable. Our research and data help inform housing policy. By facilitating cooperation between all levels of government, private and non-profit sectors, we contribute to advancing housing affordability, equity, and climate compatibility. Follow us on X, YouTube, LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.
Edmonton Journal
24-06-2025
- Business
- Edmonton Journal
Liberal cabinet minister announces $11 million for Alberta businesses
"Whether it's equipping farms in southern Alberta with AI to increase their productivity, or introducing automated production lines to a commercial bakery in Edmonton, today's investments are really about unleashing the incredible ingenuity of Alberta innovators." Doug Griffiths, Edmonton Chamber of Commerce president and CEO, left, Corey Smith, president and CEO of RAM Elevators and Lifts, Edmonton Mayor Amarjeet Sohi and Edmonton Centre Liberal MP Eleanor Olszewski, cabinet minister for emergency management and community resilience and Prairies Economic Development Canada, and James Neufeld, founder and CEO at samdesk, at a funding announcement of $11 million for seven Alberta businesses and organizations to leverage artificial intelligence, digital adoption and advanced manufacturing. Photo by Jackie Carmichael / Postmedia Edmonton Centre Liberal MP and cabinet minister Eleanor Olszewski brought the federal bacon home Tuesday with $11 million in funding to support high tech for seven Alberta businesses and organizations to leverage artificial intelligence (AI), digital adoption and advanced manufacturing. It's the first official announcement from the PrairiesCan portfolio for Olszewski. Elected in April, the freshman member of Parliament was immediately catapulted to ministerial portfolios for emergency management and community resilience and Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan) — a fit niche for a province growing its reputation as an innovation hub, tapping her background as a local trailblazer for women as the first female partner at an Edmonton law firm. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. THIS CONTENT IS RESERVED FOR SUBSCRIBERS ONLY Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Exclusive articles by David Staples, Keith Gerein and others, Oilers news from Cult of Hockey, Ask EJ Anything features, the Noon News Roundup and Under the Dome newsletters. Unlimited online access to Edmonton Journal and 15 news sites with one account. Edmonton Journal ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition to view on any device, share and comment on. Daily puzzles, including the New York Times Crossword. Support local journalism. SUBSCRIBE TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Exclusive articles by David Staples, Keith Gerein and others, Oilers news from Cult of Hockey, Ask EJ Anything features, the Noon News Roundup and Under the Dome newsletters. Unlimited online access to Edmonton Journal and 15 news sites with one account. Edmonton Journal ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition to view on any device, share and comment on. Daily puzzles, including the New York Times Crossword. Support local journalism. REGISTER / SIGN IN TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account. Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments. Enjoy additional articles per month. Get email updates from your favourite authors. THIS ARTICLE IS FREE TO READ REGISTER TO UNLOCK. Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments Enjoy additional articles per month Get email updates from your favourite authors Olszewski said Canadian companies face 'unprecedented global uncertainty, unprecedented economic unpredictability,' on market access, hiring, and supply chains — not just from tariffs being imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump. 'It's the unpredictability that goes with whether or not there'll be more, whether they'll be higher, whether they'll affect different sectors,' she said. Opportunities come with the challenges, as well as cause for great optimism, she said. 'We've been able to capitalize on some great opportunities and build on leadership that Alberta companies are showing to Alberta, to Canada and to the world,' Olszewski said, citing the seven 'high-growth' companies included in the package. 'Sponsoring companies like this, companies that are advancing technology and innovation, it's really more than bringing just a product or just a service to market because, ultimately, it's really about empowering people and our communities to be resilient, to be adaptable and to be prosperous. Get the latest headlines, breaking news and columns. By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. Please try again 'Whether it's equipping farms in southern Alberta with AI to increase their productivity, or introducing automated production lines to a commercial bakery in Edmonton, today's investments are really about unleashing the incredible ingenuity of Alberta innovators,' she said. PrairiesCan is investing $10,901,711 in repayable and non-repayable funding for seven projects in Alberta to enhance productivity, scale up, boost production efficiencies, and tackle challenges with innovative technologies. These include $1.15 million for 48Hour Discovery, and $2 million for Crust to relocate and install advanced automated production lines. Corey Smith, president and CEO at RAM Elevators + Lifts, said the capital-intensive industry will make good use of $2 million to expand manufacturing capacity. 'All three areas are exploding in North America because people are thinking about aging in place and public accessibility is as top as top of mind as ever. Almost every state or province has legislation around when public spaces need to be accessible by. So this little Edmonton company is well poised to take advantage of the North American market,' Smith said. 'It turns out Edmonton is a great place to manufacture elevators,' he said, citing a strong workforce and education support. With commercial accessibility, home vertical wheelchair lifts, and home elevators, RAM gets about 50 per cent of its revenue from the U.S., and the rest from Canada. 'Not a week goes by (but) one of our installers gets to go into a home and watch a veteran ride an elevator up to his home for the first time in five years, and see the pictures of his kids on the wall that he hasn't seen in five years,' Smith said. Repayable and non-repayable funding for the regional Artificial Intelligence initiative will bring new AI technologies to market and speed adoption in critical sectors such as agriculture, clean technology, health care, and manufacturing. For the Canadian Agri-Food Automation and Intelligence Network, $494,000 launches a technology demonstration program to support the commercial adoption of AI-based agriculture technology. For Phoenix Farms Ltd., $918,176 will fund an AI optical sorter to grade and sort potatoes. Edmonton-based samdesk gets $1.8 million to commercialize and accelerate the marketplace adoption of an AI-powered platform for crisis and travel risk management. Under the regional homebuilding innovation initiative, Promise Robotics Inc. gets $2.5 million to establish a robotics-driven homebuilding factory in Calgary supporting the production of sustainable and affordable homes. Doug Griffiths, president and CEO at the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce, recalled the essence of growing up on an Alberta farm was to be 'scrappy and innovative and entrepreneurial.' 'It was usually about how to put up a barbed wire fence when the cattle were getting out. You had to be entrepreneurial and scrappy and know how to do things yourself. Edmonton captures that entrepreneurial, scrappy, innovative solution-seeking mindset that so many businesses need,' Griffiths said. Noting Edmonton is the third largest leader in the country on artificial intelligence, and leads the country in construction engineering, he dubbed Edmonton 'the entrepreneurial capital of Canada.' 'Edmonton has the potential to be a global city, but it's not just the city that's going to do that. It's the business community that's going to help elevate the Edmonton brand and reputation for being entrepreneurial, for being scrappy, for being innovative, to solution seeking for so many problems that we have all over in every economy across the country,' he said. jcarmichael@ Bookmark our website and support our journalism: Don't miss the news you need to know — add and to your bookmarks and sign up for our newsletters . 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