Amendments to the Historic Resources Act

Kevin Aylward, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, announced two amendments to the Historic Resources Act.

"I know how vitally important our heritage, both cultural and natural, is to Newfoundland and Labrador and its people," said Minister Aylward. "It helps define who we are. I am extremely pleased to announce that this legislation will add to government's role in preserving and protecting that heritage by clarifying and expanding the role of the Heritage Foundation of Newfoundland and Labrador and protecting the province's fossil resources."

The Heritage Foundation of Newfoundland and Labrador was established in 1984 to preserve the built heritage of the province. The foundation designates buildings of heritage value and offers grants to the property owners for the restoration of the buildings. The amendments will rectify a number of issues making the foundation's relationship to government more defined under the Historic Resources Act. 

"The Heritage Foundation will continue to determine which buildings merit designation and which of these deserve a preservation grant. The foundation will work cooperatively with municipalities to protect their built heritage resources," said the minister. "These partnerships will be beneficial in helping to secure our culture and heritage. There will not be any restrictions imposed on properties within a heritage district. Property owners should not fear that their ability to enjoy their property will be compromised if their area is formally designated.

"Additionally, the foundation is providing an avenue for donors who wish to contribute to the preservation of the built heritage to do so. The issuing of tax receipts will complement government's continuing support for the foundation. Government is following the example of at least seven other provinces which have already established their heritage foundations as Crown agencies."

The amendments to protect the province's fossil resources are a result of public consultations conducted by the Committee on the Use of Outdoor Resources in July 1999. The Office of the Legislative Council in consultation with the Department of Tourism, Culture and Recreation have outlined amendments to the Historic Resources Act necessary to make it illegal to remove fossils found at sites within the province. 

"The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is committed to preserving the natural heritage of the province. Fossils are an important part of this heritage," stated Minister Aylward. "Fossils belong to all of us and we all should benefit from them, be it for educational or commercial purposes. These amendments will in no way hamper legitimate mineral and oil exploration, nor legitimate mining and quarrying activities. Government has no intention of criminalizing the possession of fossils, but is committed to preventing their sale or their export by individuals or corporations for private commercial gain."

Media contact: Catherina Kennedy, Communications, (709) 729-0928.

2001 11 29                          9:05 a.m.