November 2, 2004 Hubbards, Nova Scotia Ongoing improvements to the Hubbards Barn and Community Park were recognized today as helping to augment a source of economic and community vitality. The Honourable Geoff Regan, Minister of Fisheries, announced support for the renovations of $149,000 on behalf of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, through the Strategic Community Investment Fund (SCIF). "The Hubbards Barn and Community Park is an important component of this area's social and economic development network," said Minister Regan. "This investment will help to encourage broad-based support and involvement in activities to grow tourism, while protecting the cultural and environmental integrity of the community," he added. The restoration of the barn will increase usable space for the Farmers' Market vendors and create new rental opportunities. Exterior upgrades will involve development of a green space with walking trails and community gardens. "This project is focused on indoor and outdoor renovations to better serve both tourists and the local community. The project will also include the creation of a website to promote the Barn and its community activities such as Saturday Farmers' Market, auctions, family events, music and art shows," said Lin Cahill, Chair of the Hubbards Barn Association. SCIF is providing $135 million over five years to help communities in Atlantic Canada create an environment that encourages and enhances the development of strategic sectors such as tourism. SCIF is a component of the Atlantic Investment Partnership, a five-year Government of Canada initiative designed to help Atlantic Canadians compete in the global economy. The Fund is administrated by ACOA. FOR BROADCAST USE The Honourable Geoff Regan, Minister of Fisheries today announced ACOA support of $149,000 for renovations to Hubbards Barn and Community Park. The renovations include restoration of the barn to increase usable space for the Farmers' Market, and development of a green space with walking trails and community gardens. - 30 - For more information, please contact: Valérie Poulin Office of the Hon. Joseph McGuire Minister of ACOA (613) 948-7293 David Harrigan Media Relations Officer ACOA (Nova Scotia) (902) 426-4238 Ms. Lin Cahill Chair Hubbards Barn Association (902) 857-1667
