Mr. Speaker, it is an honour to table a petition on behalf of residents from Tofino, Ucluelet, Port Alberni and the Oceanside region in my riding of Courtenay—Alberni who are deeply concerned about the shortage of community recreation facilities in our region and across Canada.
Petitioners stress that recreation centres are vital spaces for people of all ages to gather, stay healthy and build strong communities. They note that recreation promotes physical and mental health, supports rehabilitation, reduces antisocial behaviours and lowers long-term health and social costs. Facilities also help retain families, seniors and youth in rural areas while driving economic and volunteer activity. These petitioners point out that the federal government has previously partnered with British Columbia through the investing in Canada infrastructure program's community, culture and recreation infrastructure stream and call for its renewal and expansion.
Petitioners urge the federal government to ensure rural and coastal communities have equitable access to the recreation infrastructure needed for a healthy and sustainable community and country.