Innovation, Trade and Rural Development
Labrador and Aboriginal Affairs
October 9, 2009

The Rigolet Inuit Community Government is receiving $20,957 from the Provincial Government to extend the community�s scenic boardwalk. A long-time distinguishing feature of Rigolet, the boardwalk is now an important component of the community�s tourism strategy, leading cruise ship passengers, history and heritage buffs, and local youth to the area�s culturally and historically significant sites.

"Rigolet has become a popular destination for hundreds of visitors seeking a rich cultural experience in a pristine and picturesque environment," said the Honourable Shawn Skinner, Minister of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development. "By investing in Rigolet�s tourism-related infrastructure, the community is able to bolster its experiential tourism product and entice visitors to stay longer."

The boardwalk project was initiated by the Rigolet Inuit Community Government in 1999. Today, 4.4 kilometres of trail has been completed. The project�s latest phase, to be completed in November, will add 1.6 kilometres to the trail beginning in the area known as Burnt Cove Hill, continuing around Burnt Cove Point, and bring users to a historical salmon factory. The trail will guide hikers along a beautiful shoreline and popular whale-watching area, complete with a viewfinder and storyboard, gazebo, picnic site, and an attractive outlook to the opening of Lake Melville.

"The community of Rigolet is pleased with the support of the Provincial Government in the development of what will become one of the longest boardwalks in the world," said Melva Williams, Community Development Officer, Rigolet Inuit Community Government. "The boardwalk, currently under construction, is a major economic boost for our community, drawing tourists to the area and creating much needed employment."

The boardwalk is a significant part of Rigolet�s rich history. Its construction began in the late 1800s and connected the Hudson Bay Company�s buildings that served the community. Today, it is a main tourism attraction for the Inuit community. With approximately four cruise ship and 22 Northern Ranger visits occurring in the community each year, the new section of boardwalk will add value to other attractions in Rigolet such as the Net Loft Museum, Lord Strathcona House Interpretation Centre, and community craft shop.

"The Rigolet boardwalk offers visitors a rare opportunity to take a stroll through the centuries in this scenic community, which is why it is so important to protect and enhance this great contribution to the cultural heritage of Labrador�s North Coast," said the Honourable Patty Pottle, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and MHA, Torngat Mountains. "The funding announced today will go towards meeting the long-term goal of the Provincial Government�s Northern Strategic Plan to achieve a strengthened tourism industry that maximizes social and economic benefits. Labrador�s tourism sector continues to expand and is a significant part of the region�s economy."

This initiative was funded through the Regional/Sectoral Diversification Fund (RSDF), which through Budget 2009: Building on Our Strong Foundation was increased to an $8 million fund. Administered by the Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development, the RSDF provides non-repayable contributions to economic development agencies for initiatives that address regional and sectoral development and diversification.

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