Mr. Speaker, the involvement of communities in restoring our environment is essential. Governments can show leadership and set the stage but partnerships with communities are crucial to achieving success.
Two hundred and fifteen thousand dollars was recently awarded by Environment Canada's Atlantic coastal action program for projects designed to improve the environment in five communities in the Atlantic provinces. In addition $100,000 has been allocated for four regional initiatives that will benefit all thirteen of the sites and their community groups.
The Atlantic coastal action program was established in direct response to local citizens' concerns. In my coastal communities the problems are polluted waterways, haphazard development and lack of concern for the environment.
I commend the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Environment on the success of her department's initiative in facilitating the Atlantic coastal action program. She is to be congratulated on recognizing the strength of communities in restoring the environment for everyone.