If You Build It, They Will Ceilidh
News Release
Federal and provincial governments partner in support of Cape Breton’s Colaisde na Gàidhlig | the Gaelic College
April 21, 2017 – St. Ann’s, N.S. – Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)
The Government of Canada is making strategic investments in Cape Breton Island’s growing tourism sector to help increase visitation and industry-related employment. The 2016 tourism season documented a 16% increase over the previous year in room nights sold. Visitors from around the world are coming to experience the Island’s natural beauty, history and its deeply rooted cultural traditions.
Cape Breton is home to the only living Celtic culture in North America. Colaisde na Gàidhlig | the Gaelic College owned and governed by their foundation, is one of the island's leading cultural centres for authentic Gaelic experiences and education.
The Government of Canada will invest a total of $670,830 over the next three years to assist Colaisde na Gàidhlig | the Gaelic College. Member of Parliament Mark Eyking 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).
A $375,000 investment through ACOA’s Business Development Program will help to promote KitchenFest! in 2017, 2018 and 2019. Scheduled in early July, KitchenFest! celebrates the music, culture and music of “the Gael” at over 100 live shows across the Island. The festival attracts visitors from outside the Atlantic region to memorable performances and authentic Cape Breton kitchen party experiences.
An additional investment of $295,830 through ACOA’s Innovative Communities Fund will assist Colaisde na Gàidhlig | the Gaelic College as it continues to upgrade its infrastructure. The work will include renovations to the MacKenzie, Highland and MacLeod buildings, and the Hall of the Clans.
Additional funding for these projects is being provided by the Province of Nova Scotia, through Communities, Culture and Heritage and the Department of Labour and Advanced Education.
With an international reputation for its contribution to the preservation and promotion of Gaelic culture, the College offers students the option to study from traditional arts; hosts concerts, ceilidhs and workshops; and provides hospitality services for conventions, meetings and weddings.
Quotes
“Colaisde na Gàidhlig | the Gaelic College offers truly a one-of-a-kind cultural learning experience in Nova Scotia. Investing in infrastructure like this strengthens our communities, by enhancing job creation, productivity and economic growth. Our government is proud to support the efforts of the Gaelic College Foundation as it works to conserve a culture that is vital to the history of Cape Breton Island and beyond.”
- The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
“Tourism is an important economic generator throughout Atlantic Canada, and KitchenFest helps to kick off Cape Breton Island’s summer tourism season. As well, the Gaelic College’s upgraded infrastructure will help attract students of all ages and skill levels from around the world to study with some of the finest instructors in Nova Scotia Gaelic culture.”
- The Honourable Bardish Chagger, Minister of Small Business and Tourism
“These essential improvements will ensure Colaisde na Gàidhlig | the Gaelic College continues to provide a year-round venue where locals and visitors can gather to learn, play, and be entertained. Today’s announcement demonstrates the value of partnering with strong community groups to preserve and promote culturally significant traditions, histories and practices.”
- The Honourable Mark Eyking, Member of Parliament for Sydney-Victoria
“This investment will help provide long-lasting learning opportunities for students and visitors. These improvements are important steps to preserving our Gaelic history and attracting people from across the globe."
- Pam Eyking, Member of the Legislative Assembly for Victoria–The Lakes
“The funding announced today is welcome news and will make a great difference in what Colaisde na Gàidhlig can offer. We’re thrilled to see such cultural investment and look forward to the opportunities ahead."
- The Honourable Rodney MacDonald, E.C.N.S., Chief Executive Officer - Colaisde na Gàidhlig | the Gaelic College
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Contacts
Alex Smith
Director of Communications and Outreach
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Phone: 902-426-9417 / 902-830-3839 (cell)
E-mail: alex.smith@canada.ca
Margie Beaton
Director of Marketing & Creative Design
Colaisde na Gàidhlig | the Gaelic College
Phone: 902-295-3411 (ext. 222)
E-mail: margie@gaeliccollege.edu