Gimli, Manitoba – Outreach wilderness camps in the Interlake will be equipped to offer a series of eco arts and cultural programs through an investment of $150,000 provided under the Canada-Manitoba Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA). The Honourable Reg Alcock, President of the Treasury Board and Minister responsible for the Canadian Wheat Board, on behalf of the Honourable Stephen Owen, Minister of Western Economic Diversification and Minister of State (Sport), and Manitoba Education and Youth Minister Peter Bjornson made the announcement today. “The Prairie Ocean Centre of the Arts recognizes the value of the shores of Lake Winnipeg, both for the enjoyment it provides and the economic potential it contains,” said Minister Alcock. “The surrounding communities in the Interlake Region will benefit from the economic development opportunities that will emerge from this project.” “There is a rich and vibrant culture among the residents of the communities that ring Lake Winnipeg. Much of their artistic expression is inspired by the spectacular and stunning scenery provided by Lake Winnipeg. The Lake gives inspiration to all who experience its beauty. This project will enhance the tourism industry in our province, as it is an important economic driver of our strong Manitoba economy,” said Minister Bjornson. The Prairie Ocean Centre of the Arts is a not-for-profit community-based organization that is establishing an arts centre to support the development of a cultural industry along the shores of Lake Winnipeg. Outreach initiatives have been developed in conjunction with arts and cultural organizations that will promote and support eco tourism as well as create economic opportunity in the Interlake Region. Throughout the summer of 2005, the Prairie Ocean Centre will deliver a series of eco arts and cultural programs in remote locations tailored to tourism-related organizations and private tour operators, as well as educational institutions and special interest groups. Topics such as creative writing and photography will be delivered through wilderness camps located in Black Island, Steep Rock and other areas along Lake Winnipeg. In addition, a unique camp will be offered in St. Laurent to deliver an Aboriginal cultural awareness program on the creative spirit. Participants will have an opportunity to experience a sweat lodge and sharing circle, and join in drum and mask making. Together, and in partnership with community stakeholders, the governments of Canada and Manitoba are working to strengthen and diversify Manitoba's economy, build on existing economic strengths, enhance the skills of Manitoba's workforce and promote regional development. For more information on this and other projects funded under EPA, visit: http://www.epa.gov.mb.ca. Federal funding for this initiative is included in the fiscal framework. For additional information, contact: Mark Gale Communications Manager Western Economic Diversification Canada Tel: (204) 983-6243 E-mail: mark.gale@wd.gc.ca Terri Hooper Communications Coordinator, Canada-Manitoba Economic Partnership Agreement (204) 945-7805 http://www.epa.gov.mb.ca Graham Gork Communications Coordinator, Communication Services Manitoba (204) 945-5795 http://www.gov.mb.ca WD Toll-Free Number 1-888-338-WEST (9378) World Wide Web Site: English: http://www.wd.gc.ca French: http://www.deo.gc.ca
