Toronto, Ontario, November 30, 2009--The Government of Canada is providing infrastructure funding for improvements at four national historic sites in Toronto, today announced Ms. Lois Brown, Member of Parliament for Newmarket-Aurora, on behalf of the Honourable Jim Prentice, Canada’s Environment Minister and Minister responsible for Parks Canada. Today’s announcement is part of Canada’s Economic Action Plan to stimulate Canada’s economy during the global recession. The Economic Action Plan includes major investments in national historic sites as a means of stimulating growth in the tourism sector.
“Toronto is proud of the varied and exciting opportunities offered by its rich heritage and vibrant culture,” said Ms. Brown. “I hope that families and individuals from all over take the opportunity to learn and experience something special about our great province and our great country by visiting one of our wonderful national historic sites.”
Through National Historic Sites Cost-Sharing Program, the Government of Canada is contributing $425,000 to the Elgin and Winter Garden Theatres in support of the economy, local tourism and Canadian history. Funding will also be provided for three other projects in Toronto; $13,750 has been designated for the St. George’s Hall as well as $13,829 for the Chapel of James-the-Less and $207,291 for The Grange National Historic Site of Canada.
“These projects will help their local communities provide attractions of choice for visitors,” said Minister Prentice. “In our Economic Action Plan, we recognize just how important historical heritage and tourism are to the economy, and the important role that the Parks Canada Cost-Sharing Program will play in support of local economies, as well as to the fabric of National Historic Sites.”
"I am pleased that the Government of Canada, under the leadership of Parks Canada, is assisting with the preservation of these important national historic sites" said the Honourable Lincoln M. Alexander, Chairman of the Ontario Heritage Trust.
"St.George’s Hall (Arts and Letters Club), which reflects much of Canada's historical past and vibrant present, is honoured to have its traditions and initiatives recognized by the Government of Canada”, said Peter G.S. Large, President of the Arts and Letters Club.
“St. James Cathedral's Cemetery Chapel, St. James-the-Less, is delighted and would like to thank the Government of Canada for supporting us in the preservation of our chapel's history, beauty and safety, which contributes to Toronto's rich heritage and culture”, said Dean Douglas Stoute, Dean of the Cathedral of St. James.
"The Art Gallery of Ontario is pleased to have the national significance of its Historic House, The Grange, recognized through this funding”, said Matthew Teitelbaum, Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO). “These funds will go towards the restoration of key components of The Grange, a centre piece of the AGO, and will continue to ensure that the house remains a proud landmark in Grange Park and the surrounding neighbourhood.”
National historic sites contribute to tourism in over 400 communities across Canada through direct spending, visitor spending and spin-off economic activity. National Historic Sites Cost-Sharing Program, with a budget of $20 million provided in part by Canada’s Economic Action Plan, reflects the government’s desire to support job creation by providing funding for conservation of National Historic Sites. This Program provides opportunities for skilled construction and conservation professionals to work in historic places across the country.
This cost-sharing program is a contribution program whereby up to 50% of eligible costs incurred in the conservation and presentation of a national historic site are paid by the Program. Eligible recipients include other levels of government, not-for-profit organizations and not-for-profit aboriginal organizations.
Parks Canada works to ensure that Canada’s historic and natural heritage is presented and protected for the enjoyment, education and appreciation of all Canadians, today and in the future.
Information:
Michèle Monette
Media Relations
Parks Canada
819-994-3023
