Montréal, Quebec, May 31, 2008 – The Honourable Jean‑Pierre Blackburn, Minister of Labour and Minister of Canada Economic Development, and the Honourable Michael M Fortier, Minister of Public Works and Government Services Canada and Minister responsible for the Region of Montréal, today announced that the Automobile Club de l'île Notre-Dame will receive $1,250,000 in non-repayable funding to upgrade the media centre of the Gilles Villeneuve Circuit, which has hosted the Canadian Grand Prix for the past 30 years. This project will generate an overall investment of $1,400,000.
"Highly prized by drivers, automakers and the public alike, the Canadian Grand Prix has a significant economic impact on Montréal. Modernization of l'île Notre-Dame's circuit facilities to Formula 1 standards is key to the future of this prestigious race. The Government of Canada supports projects which, like this one, are economic generators for the city's economy and further the country's growth," stated Minister Blackburn.
"Widely publicized around the world, the Canadian Grand prix is a unique showcase for Montréal. Improved media facilities will ensure better coverage of the event and, by extension, greater publicity for the city which will then boast yet another asset confirming its standing as a world-class tourist destination," said Minister Fortier.
Work involves building, on the Olympic Basin adjacent to the Gilles Villeneuve Circuit, of a mobile structure that will house the media centre (media stop, press room and photographers area).
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Sources:
Catherine Vallée
Communications
Canada Econo mic Development
Tel.: 514-283-0368
Cell.: 514-702-3360
E-mail: catherine.vallee@dec-ced.gc.ca
Sylvain Frenette
Office of the Honourable Jean-Pierre Blackburn
Canada Economic Development
Tel.: 514-496-1282
E-mail: sylvain.frenette@dec-ced.gc.ca
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