July 14, 2009 - Vancouver, British Columbia
Today, the Honourable Stockwell Day, Minister of International Trade, Minister for the Asia-Pacific Gateway and Minister responsible for British Columbia, on behalf of the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification, announced federal support for major improvements to the Vancouver Aquarium's Arctic Canada Gallery, which is the largest gallery at the Aquarium, and home to their beluga whale family, outdoor and underwater viewing areas, trainer facilities and the Arctic species display and education centre.
"The Vancouver Aquarium is an important facility in B.C. that supports the conservation of aquatic life through display, interpretation, research and education," said Minister Day. "Today's announcement will help the region draw more visitors, expand research, and create new skilled employment for western Canadians."
Educational exhibits such as those offered at the Canada's Arctic gallery connect people to the natural world and inspire them towards conservation. Today's federal funding will contribute to the complete redevelopment of this popular exhibit including audio-visual and other content designed to tell a compelling story of life in Canada's Arctic region. Other changes include new Arctic fish and invertebrates, and the incorporation of new technologies and interactive stations to help engage and inform visitors about the Arctic and how climate change impacts people, habitats and wildlife in the region.
"The funding comes at a crucial time for us and is exciting news for our staff, researchers and visitors," said Dr. John Nightingale, President of the Vancouver Aquarium. "Now more than ever, it's important that we help our visitors explore Canada's Arctic and its wildlife. Our aim is to further develop understanding of the region while inspiring people to take action to help conserve this vital part of the earth."
More than $550,000 in federal funding for this project is being provided through Western Economic Diversification Canada under the Western Diversification Program.
The Vancouver Aquarium is a global leader in connecting people to our natural world, and a self-supporting, non-profit association dedicated to supporting the conservation of aquatic life through display and interpretation, conservation practices, education, research, and direct action. It has over 300 employees, receives regular support from over 600 volunteers, and provides care for more than 70,000 marine animals and life forms. Learn more at http://www.vanaqua.org/.
Western Economic Diversification Canada works with the provinces, industry associations and communities to promote the development and diversification of the western economy, coordinates federal economic activities in the West and represents the interests of western Canadians in national decision making.
For additional information, contact:
Donna Howes
Communications Manager
Western Economic Diversification Canada
Tel: (604) 666-1318
Cell: (604) 505-6616
Helen Lee
Public Relations Coordinator
Vancouver Aquarium Marine Science Centre
Tel: (604) 659-3775
Cell: (604) 230-4673
WD Toll-Free Number:1 888 338-WEST (9378)
Teletypewriter (TTY): 1 877 303-3388
Website: WD is online at www.wd-deo.gc.ca.
