Business, Tourism, Culture and Rural Development
August 9, 2016

Battle Harbour Investment Supports Tourism Development in Labrador

Federal and Provincial Governments Announce Support for Battle Harbour Historic Trust Inc.

Battle Harbour, which is being developed as one of Labrador's key cultural tourism attractions, received a boost today to help continue efforts to market and transform it into a premiere tourism destination. Yvonne Jones, Member of Parliament for Labrador, on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), along with the Honourable Christopher Mitchelmore, provincial Minister of Business, Tourism, Culture and Rural Development, announced a combined contribution of more than $100,000 for Battle Harbour Historic Trust Inc. to support the initiative.

Battle Harbour, a small island near Mary's Harbour in coastal Labrador, has a rich history dating back to the late 1700s as the unofficial social and economic capital of Labrador. In recent years, the Battle Harbour Historic Trust Inc. led the restoration of the fishing community's buildings, wharves and flakes to their original state and established Battle Harbour as a tourism destination. It is now recognized as one of Canada's National Historic Districts.

ACOA is providing a non-repayable contribution of $75,737 from its Business Development Program towards the project and the Provincial Government is contributing $26,075. Work will include targeted marketing activities such as trade shows, promotional package development, videos and signage to help increase visitation to Battle Harbour. The project also involves other minor infrastructure upgrades, purchase of equipment along with activities that support the overall Battle Harbour tourism product.

An additional $50,430 is provided to Battle Harbour Historic Trust for operational support under the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador's Cultural Economic Development Program, and $12,030 through the Heritage Anchor Attractions Fund.

Quotes

"In regions such as Labrador, the tourism industry and partners like the Battle Harbour Historic Trust Inc. play an important role in helping to grow the economy. Through ACOA, the Government of Canada is making strategic investments in initiatives like this one, which build on competitive regional advantages and support diversification of our communities."
- The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA

"The Government of Canada believes that the economy is the number one priority and we continue to work in collaboration with businesses, local communities, and the non-profit sector to advance our growth agenda and support strong industries such as tourism. Battle Harbour represents both the preservation and demonstration of Labrador's rich culture and heritage and I commend the Battle Harbour Historic Trust Inc. on its ongoing work to develop this site."
- Yvonne Jones, Member of Parliament for Labrador

"Known for its breathtaking scenery, culture and world-class hospitality, Newfoundland and Labrador is a destination of choice for many. Battle Harbour Historic Trust continues to build on its efforts to cater to visitors seeking a unique experience, culture and adventure all at the same time. Their work has been quite successful and is on track to position Battle Harbour as a one of the most significant cultural and heritage attractions in Newfoundland and Labrador."
- The Honourable Christopher Mitchelmore, provincial Minister of Business, Tourism, Culture and Rural Development

"Coastal Labrador has tremendous value to offer visitors, from its stunning scenery to the rich heritage of sites like Battle Harbour. As the MHA for the district, I am delighted to see strong, continued support for this initiative from my government in partnership with Ottawa. I believe this investment will greatly enhance the tourism industry in the region and continue to promote Battle Harbour as a leading cultural attraction."
- Lisa Dempster, MHA Cartwright - L'Anse au Clair

"The partnership between ACOA, BTCRD and the Battle Harbour Historic Trust has been central for bringing Battle Harbour up to the world class tourist destination it now is. The need now is to get the word out about Battle Harbour to travellers. The funds in this agreement to produce creative marketing initiatives will ensure people looking for an exceptional visitor experience will know about this magical island in the Labrador Sea."
- Peter Woodward, Chair, Battle Harbour Historic Trust Inc.

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Media contacts:

Tansy Mundon Director of Communications Department of Business, Tourism, Culture and Rural Development 709-729-4570, 693-1865 tansymundon@gov.nl.ca	Paul McGrath Director, Communications ACOA NL 709-772-2984 paul.mcgrath@canada.ca
Peter Bull Executive Director Battle Harbour Historic Trust Inc. 709-330-6325 peter@battleharbour.com

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