The Governments of Canada and Prince Edward Island joined with representatives of the Cavendish, Beach and the Dune Shores Tourism Association Inc. (CBDS) to celebrate the Grand Opening of the modernized Cavendish Visitor Information Centre (VIC). The Honourable Robert Vessey, Provincial Minister of Tourism and Culture, and the Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans were on hand for the event.
"The interior of the VIC was completely redesigned to meet the expectations of today's visitor," said the Honourable Robert Vessey Minister of Tourism and Culture. "The association wanted to make the VIC a destination in itself, a hub of activity where visitors would enjoy the centre as an attraction, as well as receive the highest quality of customer care." The provincial government has invested $325,000 to the facility redevelopment and contributes annually to the operation and management of the Cavendish Centre VIC.
"Our Government continues to work with partners like the CBDS to grow the tourism industry in Atlantic Canada," said Minister Shea on behalf of the Honourable Keith Ashfield, Minister of National Revenue, Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) and Minister for the Atlantic Gateway. "Providing unique and memorable experiences for visitors will result in longer stays, repeat visits and positive word-of-mouth recommendations, all of which work to strengthen our economy." ACOA supported the Cavendish, Beaches and the Dunes Shores Tourism Association Inc. with an investment of $130,000 through its Business Development Program to help refurbish the Visitor Information Centre in Cavendish.
The Cavendish, Beach and the Dune Shores Tourism Association Inc. currently operate the VIC, in partnership with the Department of Tourism and Culture and Parks Canada. The association strongly felt that upgrading the facility and the enhancement of technological capabilities was a key component in transitioning the building to meet visitor expectations. The installation of a new service counter, promotional displays, new video screens, graphics, computers and signage provide more effective customer service and visual appeal for both visitors and Islanders.
"We are very excited about the work that has been done inside and outside at the Cavendish Visitor Information Centre," said Matthew Jelley, President of the Cavendish, Beaches and the Dunes Shores Tourism Association Inc. "In addition to the technology enhancements, we also introduced a café, a performance area, and outdoor seating. These new additions will help our group generate revenues to assist with future programs and initiatives."
FOR BROADCAST USE:
Visitors will be treated to a more enhanced experience of the North Shore thanks to enhanced infrastructure. Today, the Honourable Robert Vessey, Minister of Tourism and Culture and the Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, and along with members of the Cavendish, Beaches and the Dunes Shores Tourism Association celebrated the Grand Opening of the modernized Cavendish Visitor Information Centre.
The Cavendish, Beach and the Dune Shores Tourism Association Inc. currently operate the VIC, in partnership with the Department of Tourism and Culture and Parks Canada. With investments from the federal and provincial governments, the existing building has been transformed into an up-to-date facility. The installation of a new service counter, promotional displays, video screens, graphics, computers and signage within the site provides visual appeal and also offers convenient services to visitors. The revitalization of the Visitor Information Centre should entice guests to increase their stay in the North Shore area and more importantly on Prince Edward Island.
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INFORMATION:
Jana Parker
ACOA PEI & Tourism
902-368-0264
Julie Whitlock
Tourism and Culture
902-368-5535
Matthew Jelley
President, Cavendish, Beach and the Dune Shores Tourism Association Inc.
902-963-2078
