DEVOLIN SUPPORTS SERVICE CANADA OFFICE IN LINDSAY

November 29, 2005

LINDSAY - Local MP Barry Devolin appeared before Kawartha Lakes Council today to seek a resolution supporting a Service Canada pilot site in Lindsay.  It was also an opportunity for Barry to follow up on direction given to him by Council last June requesting he look into the possibility of locating a one-stop shop for federal services in the Lindsay-area.

“The goal of Service Canada is to provide better, one-stop service to more Canadians in more communities, delivered with the right service attitude,” said Devolin.  “Over time, it will bring federal services and benefits together making it easier for Canadians get more of the help they need in one place, whether by phone, Internet or in person.”

“I believe that there is an opportunity in Lindsay for a co-location of services at 322 Kent Street West,” said Devolin.  “There’s a municipal and provincial office already there, it would just require a federal office moving in and it’s my understanding that space may soon be available.”

“I also recognize that there are communities like as Bobcaygeon and Fenelon Falls less than forty kilometers away, both have large seniors populations but many seniors don’t have a vehicle, don’t drive anymore and there is no public transit available,” said Devolin.  “My suggestion is that Service Canada staff be able to travel, maybe one or two days a month where government workers can come to their communities.”

“During my committee work in Ottawa I had the opportunity to ask the Honourable Belinda Stronach, the Minister for Human Resources and Skills Development, about using Lindsay as a possible pilot site for Service Canada – and she seemed receptive to the idea,” said Devolin.

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For more information contact:

Barry Devolin            (705) 324-2400 or (866) 688-9881