MORDEN, Manitoba, July 22, 2010 - On behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, Candice Hoeppner, Member of Parliament (Portage-Lisgar), today announced funding for the Canadian Fossil Discovery Centre (CFDC).
This funding will help the CFDC with its Conservation Initiative project. The goal of this endeavour is to create, implement, and evaluate a disaster preparedness plan for the CFDC. Major project activities include hiring contract staff and consultants to address gaps in the Collections Management Policy, conserving fossils and specimens deemed in need of punctual intervention, and reviewing current museological practices.
"Our Government recognizes the importance of ensuring the preservation and conservation of museum collections," said Minister Moore. "We are proud to support the Conservation Initiative project, which will improve the museum functions and collections practices at the Canadian Fossil Discovery Centre."
"The Canadian Fossil Discovery Centre's programming and exhibitions are providing extraordinary education, research, and tourism opportunities," said Ms. Hoeppner. "Our Government is proud to support the CFDC's continued efforts to preserve its collections for all Canadians to enjoy."
"It is our duty to ensure that these prehistoric fossils are properly cared for," said Tyler Schroeder, General Manager of the CFDC. "This funding will increase our conservation efforts and allow us to operate at a higher standard."
The CFDC is located in Morden, Manitoba, approximately 140 kilometres from Winnipeg. It currently houses the largest collection of marine vertebrates in Canada, including the fossil of a 13-metre mosasaur, the second largest in North America.
The Government of Canada has provided funding of $67,630 through the Museums Assistance Program of the Department of Canadian Heritage. This program provides funding to Canadian museums and related institutions for projects that foster excellence in museum activities and that facilitate access to the treasures of our collective heritage.
For more information (media only), please contact:
Matthew Deacon
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and
Official Languages
819-997-7788
matthew.deacon@pch.gc.ca
Francine D. Lefebvre
Director
Regional Communications
Prairies and Northern Region
Canadian Heritage
Tel.: 204-983-4367
Cell: 204-899-8611
francine.lefebvre@pch.gc.ca
Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
media@pch.gc.ca
