Mr. Speaker, the Kus-kus-sum project in my riding is a model of co-operation between residents in the Comox Valley, the K'ómoks people, the City of Courtenay, and the Comox Valley Regional District. They are working in partnership with the private sector and charitable foundations to restore the K'ómoks estuary after decades of industrial contamination at the former Field sawmill site.
The Project Watershed stewardship society has purchased the site, which has been given the name Kus-kus-sum by the K'ómoks elders. Co-operation in this project continues, even after the sale has been completed. Its ownership will be assumed jointly by the City of Courtenay and the K'ómoks people.
The restoration of Kus-kus-sum as a vibrant and productive fish habitat is critical for recreation, tourism, and the local economy. This is a big job with big deadlines, and a true example of reconciliation in action. For this project to succeed, all levels of government must pull together in co-operation. Now is the time for the federal government to fund this co-operative project.