HAVRE-SAINT-PIERRE, Quebec, July 12, 2005 -- The Honourable Stéphane Dion, Minister of the Environment and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, today announced that preliminary studies will begin this year to support the future presentation of the lighthouses of Île aux Perroquets and Petite Île au Marteau, which still play a role in aiding navigation in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, to the public.
"This project, highly anticipated by the community, will significantly enhance the heritage experience offered to Canadians visiting the Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve of Canada, while at the same time diversifying the service offer in the region and contributing to the local economy. The study will support the preservation, promotion and presentation of this important part of the history of the Mingan region's maritime heritage, which reflects the goals of Parks Canada," said Minister Dion.
During the project's first phase, in 2005-2006, $124,000 will be invested by Parks Canada, the Société d'aide au développement des collectivités de la Côte-Nord (with financial support from Canada Economic Development), and the Municipalité régionale de comté de Minganie. This money will be used to document the project, conduct historical and ethnological research, and evaluate the condition of the buildings, services and infrastructure on each of the islands.
Created in 1984, the Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve of Canada is composed of islands and reefs spread out over a distance of 152 kilometres. The park represents a tourism draw of international standing for the North Shore and a destination of choice for nature lovers, pleasure boaters and history buffs. Visitors can find unique plant life, extraordinary rock formations and rare birds. All of this, together with the chance to observe marine mammals, makes the park a first-rate ecotourism destination in the region.
-30-
Information:
Brigitte Caron
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of the Environment
(819) 997-1441
Hugues Michaud
Superintendent
Mingan Field Unit
Parks Canada
(418) 538-3331
