The Honourable Clyde Jackman, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, announced today that the North Atlantic Aviation Museum, located in Gander, has received $29,285 in operational support through the department�s Cultural Economic Development Program (CEDP).

"The history of aviation in Gander is more than 70 years old," Minister Jackman said. "It is an industry which has generated revenue for the province, employment for our people, and tourism opportunities galore in the central region. This investment indicates the Provincial Government�s commitment to preserving and promoting our collective history."

The North Atlantic Aviation Museum displays artifacts and presents historical information on aviation in Gander from 1936 to present.

The Honourable Kevin O�Brien, MHA for Gander, welcomed the investment in the preservation of Gander�s aviation history for present and future generations.

"This significant investment enables the museum to continue to play an integral role in the history of Gander, and also to the province�s tourism industry," said Minister O�Brien. "Gander, and Newfoundland and Labrador, has played a critical role in the development of aviation."

The 2008 Cultural Economic Development Program (CEDP) is providing $1.15 million for operational and project support to the heritage sector, and about $1.2 million to the professional arts sector, for a total of more than $2.3 million.

For more information on the CEDP program and application guidelines, visit: www.tcr.gov.nl.ca/tcr/services_programs/cedp/heritage/.

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Media contact:
Heather May
Director of Communications
Department of Tourism, Culture and Recreation
709-729-0928, 697-5061
heathermay@gov.nl.ca