Provincial Historic Sites in Newfoundland and Labrador are seeing positive changes to programming and services this year, thanks to increased investment in human resources, revamped exhibits, and various initiatives designed to make the province�s history �come alive� for residents and visitors alike.

The Honourable Clyde Jackman, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, was at Commissariat House in St. John�s today to announce that the Provincial Government is investing $435,000 annually to further revitalize the province�s Provincial Historic Sites system, and to make a visit to the sites a more meaningful and relevant experience for all.

"This funding will ensure our Provincial Historic Sites are presented in a vibrant manner, and that we take advantage of new technologies, new ideas, and new partnerships to enhance their role within the communities they serve," said Minister Jackman. "It means that professional staff will be available onsite for longer periods of time; new programming can be developed and implemented; there can be more interaction with schools and community groups; and, more widespread understanding and appreciation for the history that has shaped our province and our people."

The funding includes more than $300,000 for full-time, seasonal staff, $50,000 for a marketing campaign designed to promote the province�s Provincial Historic Sites, and more than $40,000 to follow through on a pilot project, initiated last year, which allows for the presentation of live history programming at selected sites. In addition, $25,000 is being provided to the Newfoundland and Labrador Historic Sites Association to operate the Newman Wine Vaults in St. John�s as a Provincial Historic Site.

Minister Jackman noted this new investment, made available through Budget 2008, is in addition to the $17.6 million, three-year commitment to arts, culture and heritage initiatives announced in the province�s cultural strategy, Creative Newfoundland and Labrador: The Blueprint for Development and Investment in Culture (2006).

"With today�s announcement, that strategy has now provided more than $2.6 million to address structural issues at the Provincial Historic Sites, to plan and construct modern, interactive exhibits, and to enhance programming," said Minister Jackman. "In this, the third year of implementing Creative Newfoundland and Labrador, the Provincial Government continues to strengthen our heritage sector through increased operating grants to sector organizations and increased investment in our community-based heritage groups."

For more information on the province�s Provincial Historic Sites, visit: www.tcr.gov.nl.ca/tcr/historicsites.

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2008 07 09                                                     11:40 a.m.