HARVEY , New Brunswick - The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) will provide $102,285 to Albert County Heritage Trust for the development of an interpretive historic shipyard site in Harvey, Albert County, New Brunswick. This site will be located on the historic Harvey Bank wharf, near a restored lighthouse and other preserved historic sites in the immediate area. The project includes the construction and installation of a monument that replicates the design of a sailing ship, landscaping and land improvements, flagpoles, ship railing, design, construction and installation of different exhibits and interpretive panels, repairs and restoration to a lighthouse. The Honourable Andy Scott, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians, said the development of the heritage project promises economic benefits for the community and potentially for all of Southeast New Brunswick. "ACOA's Community Economic Development (CED) focus is a key investment in the regional economy of Atlantic Canada. CED is a collective action by a community working to improve its economic health and viability," Minister Scott stated, on behalf of the Hon. Joseph McGuire, Minister for ACOA. "Today's announcement not only has an important historical significance but it also will strengthen the economic sustainability of the region through increased tourism." Mary Majka, President of the Albert County Heritage Trust Inc., was pleased with the news and said, "This project will help recall the building of wooden sailing ships, once a very important industry in New Brunswick. ACOA's investment will enable the Heritage Trust to construct a monument and to commemorate the site and the people who built and sailed those magnificent ships." The funding will be provided through the Strategic Community Investment Fund (SCIF) administered by ACOA. SCIF was created to support strategic initiatives that contribute to CED in Atlantic Canada. Its purpose is to help communities create opportunities for economic development that will stimulate employment and attract investments. SCIF is a component of the Atlantic Investment Partnership (AIP). -30- Valérie Poulin Director of Communications Office of the Honourable Joseph McGuire Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (613) 941-7241 Mary Majka President Albert County Heritage Trust Inc. (506) 882-2100 Paul C.J. LeBlanc Senior Communications Officer Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (506) 452-3310
