Canada’s Economic Action Plan at work in Ontario
Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, April 26, 2010 -- The tourism industry in the Niagara Region is receiving a boost today thanks to a major Government of Canada investment in the Niagara National Historic Sites of Canada. The Economic Action Plan funding was announced today by the Honourable Rob Nicholson, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Member of Parliament for Niagara Falls, on behalf of the Honourable Jim Prentice, Canada’s Environment Minister and Minister responsible for Parks Canada.
“This investment in the Niagara National Historic Sites will not only help preserve and improve these treasured places; it will also provide local construction jobs and economic activity which will help encourage tourism in our region,” said Minister Nicholson. “The upgrades announced today will help prepare the area for the upcoming Bicentennial celebrations of the War of 1812.”
Today’s announcement of $204,000 includes funding for heritage preservation of buildings at Navy Hall and Butler’s Barracks National Historic Site including upgrades to fire prevention systems as well cannon-sleeving and carriages protection to help bring history to life at Fort George National Historic Site.
“The Government of Canada is committed to acting quickly and effectively to implement Canada’s Economic Action Plan,” said Minister Prentice “The projects announced today will help to enhance visitor experiences, create jobs and economic activity right away, and help conserve the important sites of Niagara.”
Tourism represents a significant economic opportunity for Canada and, for this reason, has been targeted in Canada’s Economic Action Plan. In 2007, the tourism sector contributed approximately $28.6 billion to the Canadian economy and employed 653,400 Canadians. Canada’s Economic Action Plan is our government’s plan to stimulate our economy during the global recession by restoring confidence and supporting workers and families.
Canada’s Economic Action Plan sets aside $374 million for improvements of facilities and protection of Canada’s national parks and national historic sites. As a result of these investments in national parks and national historic sites, many skilled men and women in construction, tourism and conservation sectors will be hired in every province and territory of Canada.
For additional information, please see the accompanying backgrounder at www.parkscanada.gc.ca under Media Room.
Information:
Scott Currie
Communications Manager
Southwestern Ontario Field Unit
Parks Canada
519-573-2476
Pamela Stephens
Office of the Hon. Rob Nicholson
613-992-4621
