GLACE BAY (NS) – March 19, 2008 – The Centre for Adults in Progressive Employment (CAPE, formerly known as Brass Tack Industries) officially opened its new facility today, at a ribbon cutting ceremony in Glace Bay. Taking part in the ceremony were Gerald Keddy, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), Judy Streatch, Nova Scotia Minister of Community Services and Cape Breton Regional Municipality (CBRM) Mayor John Morgan.
“Our Government is proud to support this new facility, which will help create new opportunities for persons with intellectual and physical disabilities,” said Parliamentary Secretary Keddy. “Our Government’s investment of more than $300,000 in this project enhances community infrastructure and ensures key programs continue to support people at different stages of their development and independence.”
CAPE provides life, social and vocational skills training for adults with intellectual and physical disabilities. After a fire destroyed CAPE’s previous facility, the governments of Canada and Nova Scotia, as well as the CBRM, provided the support necessary to construct a new and enhanced building.
Community Services Minister Streatch said, “CAPE is providing a valuable service to Nova Scotians with disabilities, their families, care givers, and the community. With a new, updated facility, CAPE can continue the excellent work they have been doing in Glace Bay for the past 20 years.”
“The CBRM is pleased to be part of the opening of CAPE’s new facility,” said Mayor Morgan. “By promoting opportunities for persons with intellectual and physical disabilities, CAPE is enhancing the overall quality of life in the CBRM.”
The total cost of the project was $645,000. Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation provided a contribution of $305,000 through ACOA’s Business Development Program. The Province of Nova Scotia provided a contribution of $265,000 through the Department of Community Services and the CBRM provided a grant of $20,000.
Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation offers programs in support of economic development initiatives and is responsible for delivering ACOA’s programs on Cape Breton Island and in the Mulgrave area.
INFORMATION:
Tom Plumridge
ECBC, Acting CEO
902-564-3846
Lynne McCarron
CAPE
902-849-8187
Linda Laffin
NS Department of Community Services
902-424-6283