Governments Invest $1 million for New Bouctouche Farmers’ Market
News release
July 28, 2018 – Bouctouche, NB – Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Modern and up-to-date community infrastructure helps connect people to jobs, attracts new business and creates economic growth. The governments of Canada and New Brunswick announced a joint investment totaling $1 million to the Town of Bouctouche during today’s official opening of the new Bouctouche Farmers’ Market.
The Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Intergovernmental and Northern Affairs and Internal Trade and Member of Parliament for Beauséjour, 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 Benoît Bourque, New Brunswick Minister of Health, Minister of Service New Brunswick and MLA for Kent South, joined Town of Bouctouche and Farmers’ Market officials to make the announcement.
The project involved construction of a new 9,300-square-foot farmers' market building and interior amenities, and the development of a plaza area, which includes amenities for outside vendors, and will also serve as a town square to host community and tourism events. The former market had to be replaced after it was destroyed by fire in 2015.
The Government of Canada is contributing $500,000 to this initiative through ACOA’s Innovative Communities Fund, and the Province of New Brunswick is providing $500,000 through the Regional Development Corporation.
This investment builds on commitments made by the Government of Canada and the four Atlantic Provinces to drive economic growth in the region through the Atlantic Growth Strategy by helping the region’s tourism industry attract more visitors and create new jobs across the region. This bold new approach is in line with Canada’s Tourism Vision, which seeks to make Canada a top-ten global tourism destination by 2025.
Quotes
“The Government of Canada is committed to developing prosperous communities and supporting vital community infrastructure. Our investment in the Bouctouche Farmers’ Market will enhance a popular community locale while promoting new tourism opportunities, which will in turn strengthen the local economy, and promote the quality of life in this region.”
- The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA
“The Government of Canada, through ACOA, is committed to projects that create economic opportunities by building on local strengths. For nearly two decades the Bouctouche Farmers’ Market has showcased a rich fabric of flavours through food, music, art and friendships. This beautiful new facility will help continue this vibrant community tradition and contribute to this region’s economy for years to come.”
- The Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Intergovernmental and Northern Affairs and Internal Trade and Member of Parliament for Beauséjour
“Investing in key infrastructure projects like the Bouctouche Farmers’ Market is important for the local economy and community. The demand for locally grown and produced goods has been revitalized by the popularity of farmers’ markets and an interest in niche and regional foods. This new facility will ensure the Farmers’ Market is here to serve the community for many years.”
- The Honourable Benoît Bourque, New Brunswick Minister of Health and Minister of Service New Brunswick and MLA for Kent South, on behalf of the Honourable Bill Fraser, New Brunswick Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure and minister responsible for the Regional Development Corporation
“Our goal is to develop the Bouctouche Farmers’ Market into a model rural market and to create a Centre of Excellence for farmers’ markets in the Maritime provinces.”
- Roland Fougère, Mayor of Bouctouche
Contacts
Sharon Stanford-Rutter
Communications
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
506-260-2301
Bruce MacFarlane
Communications
Regional Development Corporation
506-444-4377
Rachelle Richard-Collette
Director
Bouctouche Farmers’ Market
506-955-2308