Vicki L Morrison
Today Julian Fantino, Associate Minister of National Defence, announced a $25 million investment at CFB Kingston and the nearby Kingston Armoury.
The money will support the building of a new Peace Support Training Centre which will provide advanced training for the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) and other government departments assigned to conflict zones around the world.
“Our men and women in uniform deserve the very best, which is why our government is committed to making sure they have the best facilities available to them. I thank all our CAF personnel for their dedication and service to the safety and security of our nation, and the sacrifices they and their families make, on behalf of all Canadians,” said Fantino.
The existing school is expecting to see enrolment double in the coming years, and the current facility cannot accommodate this expected growth. Construction of a new, 4,000 m2 facility will begin in late summer 2015, and is expected to be complete in 2017.
Training at the new centre will include pre-deployment training, Peace Support Operator Course and the Civil–Military Cooperation Operator Course.
“Additionally, this $25 million investment will be a positive development for jobs and economic growth in the Kingston area,” said Fantino.
Improvements will also be made to the military quarters on the base and at the nearby Kingston Armoury.
A recent facility condition assessment identified required repairs and maintenance at the military quarters on base. A project to renovate the interior of the quarters, including flooring, painting and bathroom fixtures, as well as heating and ventilation system upgrades, and exterior renovations will ensure that the facilities are in good condition.
The Department of National Defence (DND) has identified an opportunity to perform a number of improvements at aging armouries across Canada as well. Over the next two years, $135 million will be invested in projects involving repairs to roofs, siding, plumbing, and heating and ventilation systems.
Federal infrastructure investments, announced by Prime Minister Harper in November 2014, will continue to build and renew infrastructure across the country. The DND received $452 million for the repair and upgrade of CAF facilities.
The government estimates that accelerated investments will also support the creation of over 10,000 jobs in communities near across Canada, including the Kingston area, by the end of 2016.
Get More! Receive six issues of Canadian Military Family Magazine in your mail box for only $17.95! Click here to subscribe NOW!
