Policy
$1.2 million to be invested in Reserve infrastructure across Ontario
Close to $250 million will be poured into repairs and upgrades to Reserve armouries and training facilities across Canada over the next five years, announced the Government of Canada today.
“Our government is focused on supporting our women and men in uniform with what they need to carry out the challenging work we ask of them. A strong, modern, and capable Reserve Force is critical to our military’s operational success. That is why our government is investing in functional and green infrastructure upgrades to support the training and future growth of the Reserves,” said Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of National Defence.
The repairs will begin this year will $38 million invested in facilities across the country. Out of this $38 million, an estimated $1.2 million will be invested in Reserve infrastructure across Ontario in 2019-20.
According to the announcement made today by Peter Fragiskatos, Member of Parliament for London North Centre, and Kate Young, Member of Parliament for London West and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Science and Sport and to the Minister of Public Services and Procurement and Accessibility, the investment should create economic opportunities for local businesses.
“These investments in HMCS Prevost will help provide our Reserve Force with the modern and green infrastructure it needs. This funding will also help create economic opportunities for the surrounding community and businesses,” said Fragiskatos.
Additionally, these investments should ensure the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) will be able to accommodate future growth in the Reserves and house new capabilities and equipment.
“It is critical that we ensure our Reservists have the equipment and facilities they require to continue the important work they do. This means we must invest in tomorrow’s Reserve infrastructure today. This funding benefits not only HMCS Prevost, but will also help provide work for local businesses in London,” stated Young.
The Department of National Defence is also currently analyzing current infrastructure to determine long-term future Reservists’ needs. The goal of Canada’s Defence policy is to increase the amount of reserve sources by 1,500 to a total force of 30,000. This study, which is taking place in Edmonton and Metro Vancouver, will help to shape future plans to modernize facilities across the country.