Business, Tourism, Culture and Rural Development
October 21, 2016

Bonavista Peninsula Projects Receive Government Funding

Government Investments Support Cultural Tourism and Heritage Throughout the Bonavista Peninsula

The Honourable Judy Foote, Minister of Public Services and Procurement and Member of Parliament for Bonavista-Burin-Trinity, along with Neil King, MHA for Bonavista, announced combined funding of $180,250 to support cultural tourism and heritage projects. Minister Foote made the announcement on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), while MHA King spoke on behalf of the Honourable Christopher Mitchelmore, Minister of Business, Tourism, Culture and Rural Development, at an event at the Port Union Factory Building in the Town of Trinity Bay North today.

The Government of Canada is investing $37,750 through the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program (CIP 150) and the Provincial Government is investing $22,500 through the Department of Business, Tourism, Culture and Rural Development for the Sir William Ford Coaker Heritage Foundation to renovate Sheppard House in the Port Union Heritage District. The project involves electrical and plumbing upgrades, new flooring, interior walls and functional kitchen accessories.

The Government of Canada is also providing $80,000 through ACOA's Business Development Program (BDP) and the Provincial Government is providing $40,000 (TBC) through the Department of Business, Tourism, Culture and Rural Development to support craft producers on the Bonavista Peninsula under the auspices of the Trinity Historical Society.

This project involves a growing partnership of cultural craft stakeholders including Cape Random Trust; the Bonaventure to English Harbour Development Association (BEDA); the Sir William Ford Coaker Heritage Foundation; and the Home from the Sea Foundation, which are working together to enhance small business opportunities on the Bonavista Peninsula.

Their project will improve training and professional development for craft and gift shop managers and crafts producers, help develop products by enhancing the visitor experience through the development of engaging and learning cultural experiences, and will provide support for a planner to assist the group in implementing these activities.

Quotes:

"The Government of Canada believes the economy is the number one priority, and cultural tourism and heritage shows great potential for growth. In order to help small business operators to realize that potential in these sectors, we need to work in collaboration with businesses, local communities, and non-profit sector organizations. We are pleased to support business and community groups as well as municipalities on the Bonavista Peninsula area as they help strengthen the local economy."
- The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA

"We recognize the value of enhancing business opportunities as well as tourism and community initiatives through public investments like these on the Bonavista Peninsula as the best way to spur economic growth, job creation and broad-based prosperity. These projects build on the region's strengths and continue to provide meaningful employment and continued opportunities for economic and community-based growth and diversification."
- The Honourable Judy Foote, Minister of Public Services and Procurement and MP for Bonavista-Burin-Trinity

"The extraordinary history and culture of the Bonavista Peninsula is also a valuable asset to the economy of the region. The Provincial Government is pleased to announce this funding that will help these businesses and not-for-profit groups continue to advance these important projects, which provides an economic boost to the region and gives visitors the authentic cultural experience they are looking for."
- The Honourable Christopher Mitchelmore, Minister of Business, Tourism, Culture and Rural Development

"The Bonavista Peninsula is a renowned destination and a major tourist draw for its famed natural beauty and for its cultural offerings. Throughout the region, there's a rich and vibrant arts community and numerous world-class heritage locations. The projects we are announcing today will greatly enhance the value of the Bonavista Peninsula as a destination for tourists and as a window into our history."
- Neil King, MHA for Bonavista

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Media contacts:

Paul McGrath Director, Public Affairs ACOA NL 709-772-2984 paul.mcgrath@canada.ca	Debbie Marnell Director of Communications (A) Department of Business, Tourism, Culture and Rural Development 709-729-4819, 699-9048 debbiemarnell@gov.nl.ca
Nathan Downey Communications Assistant Government Members Office Government of Newfoundland and Labrador 709-729-3226 NathanDowney@gov.nl.ca

2016 10 21           3:10 p.m.