Government of Canada announces investment to support tourism in Nova Scotia

From: Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency

News release

River John improves waterfront for community enjoyment and better visitor experiences

July 27, 2019 – River John, NS – Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency

Tourism is an inclusive sector that showcases Canada’s culture, diversity, natural beauty and unique experiences to the world. It delivers economic benefits across the country by supporting one in ten jobs. That’s why the Government of Canada is investing in the tourism sector’s businesses and assets.

Today, Sean Fraser, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Member of Parliament for Central Nova, on behalf of the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Tourism, Official Languages and La Francophonie, announced funding of $39,369 to support the second phase of the River John Community Action Society’s waterfront development plan. This investment is being made through the Canadian Experiences Fund (CEF), which supports Canadian businesses and organizations seeking to create, improve or enhance tourism products, facilities and experiences.

Thanks to the Government of Canada’s support for projects like River John’s riverfront development, Canadians and visitors to Canada will have greater access to kayaking and boating opportunities along the Northumberland Shore.

This announcement takes place after Minister Joly’s announcement of the new tourism strategy: Creating Middle Class Jobs: A Federal Tourism Growth Strategy. The Strategy, which was developed based on feedback from Canadians and the work of the Advisory Council on Jobs and the Visitor Economy, highlights the importance of Canada’s tourism sector as an economic driver for communities across the country.

Quotes

“These investments will enable communities and businesses in all regions of the country to develop tourism products and experiences to attract more tourists year-round. This will help communities big and small reap the benefits of the global tourism boom to diversify their economies and create good jobs for middle-class families while showcasing Canada’s brand, centred on shared values of diversity and equality.”

– The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Tourism, Official Languages and La Francophonie

“Many small communities in Canada, like those along Nova Scotia’s Sunrise Trail, are experiencing a resurgence thanks to the opportunity presented by tourism. Through the CEF, our government is investing in the development of our tourism sector and the economic potential of our vibrant communities.”

– The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency

“One of River John's assets is its picturesque location where River John meets the Northumberland Strait. I am proud that the Government of Canada is supporting the community’s ongoing efforts to improve the riverfront through beautification and greater access to recreational activities. Projects like this are making River John an even more attractive place for community members and visitors.”

– Sean Fraser, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Member of Parliament for Central Nova

“This project brings positivity to an already vibrant, growing community. Not only will this addition benefit our very proud River Johners, it will attract people near and far to come and enjoy our new beautiful waterfront. We can’t thank the Government of Canada enough for its continued support in our vision for the growth of our village.”

– Patrick Mullholland, Chair, River John Community Action Society

Quick facts

  • Tourism represents more than 2% of Canada’s total value of goods and services sold.

  • Tourism supports more than 1.8 million jobs in Canada.

  • Regional development agencies are one of Canada’s four flagship platforms supporting innovation, along with the Industrial Research Assistance Program, the Strategic Innovation Fund and the Canadian Trade Commissioner Service.

  • Canada  has six regional development agencies supporting economic development in every region of Canada.

  • The River John Action Society is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving life in the Village of River John and the surrounding communities.

  • This phase of the community’s waterfront development plan involves removing a deteriorating structure from an abandoned bridge and building a slipway for visitors, tourists and community members to launch small coastal watercraft.

Contacts

Jeremy Ghio
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Tourism, Official Languages and La Francophonie
Jeremy.Ghio@canada.ca

Media Relations
Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada
343-291-1777
ic.mediarelations-mediasrelations.ic@canada.ca

Lori Selig
A/Director, Communications and Outreach
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
902-266-7477
Lori.selig@canada.ca

Patrick Mullholland
President
River John Community Action Society
902-305-4654 (cell)
pmulholland@ritchiebros.com

Follow Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada on Twitter: @ISED_CA

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