Montréal, Quebec, December 10, 2007 Acting on behalf of the Honourable Jean-Pierre Blackburn, Minister of Labour and Minister of Canada Economic Development, the Honourable Michael M Fortier, Minister of Public Works and Government Services Canada and Minister responsible for the Montréal Region, today announced that the Government of Canada plans to provide $9 million in non-repayable funding for the relocation of the Montréal Planetarium and modernization of its equipment and facilities. This $33.1 million project is being carried out in partnership with the Government of Quebec, the City of Montréal and the firm Rio Tinto Alcan.
Moving the Planetarium to its new site is expected to create synergy with Montréal's Botanical Garden, Insectarium and Biodôme, and generate an increase in the number of admissions to the city's science institutes. To that end, the relocation of the Montréal Planetarium promises to have a growth-building impact on the city's east end and spawn significant economic spin-offs in the district.
"We intend to support the Montréal Planetarium project because it will serve to concentrate a number of science and tourism facilities in the same area. Our government is committed to furthering the development of Canadian know-how, promoting the advancement of our knowledge and extending the reach and influence of our creative power on the international stage. In opting to support this project, we are hoping to stimulate young people's interest in science," commented Minister Blackburn.
"Montréal's growth and development is of key importance to the Government of Canada. The city has an international calling and I, as minister, intend to support that by helping to promote its tourism, scientific and economic development. It is our duty to work alongside other local stakeholders and dynamic forces to foster the development, reputation and reach of Greater Montréal and Canada throughout the world," noted Minister Fortier.
This $9 million in funding is contingent upon the results of an environmental evaluation carried out in accordance with the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act, the project's compliance with the Government of Canada's funding allocation process and the signing of a contribution agreement between Canada Economic Development and the client.
The mission of the Montréal Planetarium is to familiarize the general public with the natural sciences and nature and to teach people about astronomy in particular. The institution helps make people aware of the importance of protecting our natural heritage and of the relationships between humans and the environment. Since 1966, the Planetarium has offered multimedia shows for people of all ages, designed to reveal the fascinating world of astronomy and space exploration.
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Sources:
Nathalie Jutras
Communications
Canada Economic Development
Tel.: 514-283-2800
E-mail: nathalie.jutras@dec-ced.gc.ca
Jean-Philippe Payment
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Jean-Pierre Blackburn
Canada Economic Development
Tel.: 819-953-5646
Cell.: 613-808-8309
E-mail: jeanphilippe.payment@hrsdc-rhdsc.gc.ca
