Innovation, Trade and Rural Development
Labrador and Aboriginal Affairs
May 6, 2009Labrador Heritage
Society to Enhance Local Tourism Infrastructure
The Provincial Government is contributing $43,508 to
the Labrador Heritage Society to help the organization restore and
upgrade tourism facilities in North West River. This work completes the
organization�s long-term strategy of enhancing local tourism
infrastructure focused on increasing visitor traffic to the area and
creating business opportunities.
"The Labrador Heritage Society has taken a leadership
role in adding to the area�s tourism capacity," said the Honourable
Shawn Skinner, Minister of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development.
"Through implementation of a tourism strategy that included boardwalk
development, renovations of historical properties, and beautification
initiatives, the experience for visitors, and for that matter, local
residents, is more enjoyable."
The initiative includes modernizing the community
centre so that it is able to host dinner theatres, live plays, and
conferences. Other work includes completing the static mounting of a
cable car and refurbishing of two buildings for possible rental.
"With its picture-postcard like atmosphere set under
the backdrop of the majestic Mealy Mountains, North West River is the
crown jewel in Central Labrador for tourism opportunities," said the
Honourable John Hickey, Minister of Labrador Affairs. "This infusion of
funding will help the Labrador Heritage Society in their efforts to
provide a window into our unique and colourful past."
Established in 1976, the Labrador Heritage Society is
a non-profit volunteer organization that is focused on preservation and
promotion of Labrador�s culture. It presently operates three sites in
North West River � Labrador Heritage Museum, the Lester Burry Memorial
ark,
and the Sunday Hill Park.
"This marks a milestone for the Town of North West
River," said Ernie Mclean, Chair of the Labrador Heritage Society. "By
improving infrastructure in the community visitors will be able to enjoy
a wide range of entertainment and services and embark upon a unique
cultural and historical experience while at the same time increasing
economic activity in the region."
The project was funded through the Regional/Sectoral
Diversification Fund (RSDF). Budget 2009 includes $8 million for new
initiatives through the RSDF, which provides non-repayable contributions
to economic development agencies for initiatives that address regional
and sectoral development and diversification.
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