Tourism, Culture and Recreation
Innovation, Trade and Rural Development
June 2, 2010
Series of Cultural, Tourism Projects Unveiled on Fogo Island
Three exciting initiatives designed to
contribute to the cultural and economic revitalization of Fogo Island,
developed through the Shorefast Foundation, were officially opened or
unveiled during a series of events held Tuesday and today (June 1 and 2)
on the island. The Shorefast Foundation is a not-for-profit organization
focused on the principles of social entrepreneurship to effect social
and economic change on Fogo Island.
"There has been great enthusiasm, and an overwhelming sense of community
pride throughout these two days of traditional meals, discussion groups,
openings, and unveilings," said the Honourable Terry French, Minister of
Tourism, Culture and Recreation. "Clearly there is a renaissance
occurring on Fogo Island — a rebirth of sorts, built on the culture,
traditions and environment of this remarkable place."
Events held yesterday and today included the opening of the first
English-language e-cinema in Canada, a rock-turning ceremony to mark the
beginning of construction of the Fogo Island Inn, and the unveiling of
the first of six planned art studios to house visiting artists from
around the world.
"Our research tells us there is a strong tourism market out there that
demands unique experiences, in authentic environments, which provide
visitors with an introduction to different cultures and perspectives on
the world in which we live," Minister French added. "I have no doubt
these projects will signal a positive turning point in the history of
Fogo Island and the entire region."
In January 2009, the Honourable Shawn Skinner, Minister of Innovation,
Trade and Rural Development, announced a Provincial Government
investment of $5 million, through the Community Development Trust, in a
$16 million geo-tourism project for Fogo Island and Change Islands. The
Shorefast Foundation also invested $6 million in the initiative that
will showcase the natural and cultural heritage of Fogo Island and
Change Islands.
"As a government, we are confident that through the work of the
Shorefast Foundation, Fogo Island and Change Islands will emerge as a
world-class destination for cultural, ecological, and culinary tourism,"
said Minister Skinner. "The vision of the Shorefast Foundation is also
well-aligned with the Provincial Government's strategic priorities in
cultural tourism, arts, heritage, and regional economic development and
diversification. I congratulate them on this important step and look
forward to seeing the construction unfold."
This week's events also included the screening of films made for the
National Film Board over 40 years ago by renowned filmmaker Colin Low,
including the well-known The Children of Fogo Island. Mr. Low and many
of that film's subjects were on hand for the screening.
For more information on the Shorefast Foundation and the projects on
Fogo Island, visit: www.shorefast.org.
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Media contacts:
Heather May
Director of Communications
Department of Tourism, Culture and Recreation
709-729-0928, 697-5061
heathermay@gov.nl.ca |
Scott Barfoot
Director of Communications
Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development
709-729-4570, 690-6290
scottbarfoot@gov.nl.ca
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2010 06 02
3:05 p.m. |