Battleford, Saskatchewan, April 28, 2005 -- Major improvements, including the construction of a new visitor reception centre and the installation of new heating systems, will be made at Fort Battleford National Historic Site of Canada this year, Ralph Goodale, Minister of Finance, on behalf of Stéphane Dion, Minister of the Environment, and Scott Brison, Minister of Public Works and Government Services, announced today. "In the year of Saskatchewan's centennial, it is appropriate that this project celebrates our past while looking to the future," said Minister Goodale. "The new visitor's centre will explain the role Fort Battleford played in the emergence of our province and it will be built using innovative and environmentally-friendly technologies." "The construction of the visitor centre will help Parks Canada convey the stories of Fort Battleford and its historic significance to visitors, and improve our service to Canadians," Minister Dion said. "The visitor centre will also be a symbol of the partnership between Parks Canada and the Town of Battleford in preserving and presenting this unique part of Canada's heritage." "The new visitor centre is a highly anticipated addition to Fort Battleford National Historic Site of Canada," Minister Brison added. "It's certain to have a positive economic impact on the area." This project includes the creation of a new reception centre for visitors and the development of new solar, wind and ground heating systems throughout the Fort Battleford facility. It is a partnership between Parks Canada and the Town of Battleford, with each partner contributing to the cost of the visitor centre. Parks Canada acknowledges the excellent co-operation it has received from the Town of Battleford during the planning stages of this important project. The project was also partially funded through the Government of Canada's Federal House in Order initiative, which is administered by Natural Resources Canada. The Government of Canada will contribute approximately $1 million to the project through Parks Canada and an additional $441,000 through the Federal House in Order initiative. Public Works and Government Services Canada awarded the competitive contract of $1,666,703 to Carmont Construction Ltd., of Saskatoon. Construction is slated for completion in October 2005. This project helps to fulfill the federal government's commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, address climate change, promote a clean and safe environment and meet our commitments under the Kyoto Protocol. The new visitor centre's design includes a hybrid of multiple alternative energy uses and the building will approach self-sustainability. Established in 1876, Fort Battleford was designated as a national historic site of Canada in 1923. It commemorates the role of the North Western Mounted Police at the Fort from 1876 to 1885 in extending the Canadian government's interests in the west. It also commemorates the role of the Fort during the Northwest Rebellion/Resistance of 1885. Fort Battleford is located in the town of Battleford, 153 km northwest of Saskatoon. It is one of nine national historic sites in Saskatchewan administered by Parks Canada. - 30 - Information: André Lamarre Director of Communications Office of the Minister of the Environment (819) 997-1441 Renée David Press Secretary Office of the Minister of Public Works and Government Services (819) 997-5421 Cheryl Penny Field Unit Superintendent Saskatchewan South Field Unit Parks Canada (306) 298-2257 John Embury Director of Communications Office of the Minister of Finance (613) 996-7861
