SOURIS (PE) – JULY 19, 2010 – The Souris lighthouse, which has been a symbol of the town and surrounding area for 130 years, has re-opened its historic doors to welcome visitors from home and away.
The Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans today joined the Honourable Allan Campbell, PEI Minister of Innovation and Advanced Learning, Members of the Board from the Souris Harbour Authority Inc, and local residents for a grand opening ceremony.
“Our Government is pleased to support infrastructure projects that can help generate and enhance unique tourism attractions that draw people to our rural communities,” 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. “Our investment in this special project supports the creation of a new tourism attraction in Souris for Islanders and visitors alike.”
ACOA invested $50,000 in the project through its Innovative Communities Fund program.
“The Souris Lighthouse has always been one of our town’s most visible landmarks. It’s good to see the lighthouse continue to serve the community as an attraction and interpretive centre for visitors to Eastern Prince Edward Island,” said Minister Campbell. “I’d like to congratulate the Souris Harbour Authority for continuing to lead projects that benefit our community.”
With site work and upgrades to the lighthouse, the historic structure, which also houses ‘Souris by the Sea Treasure’ and ‘Jewels of the Sea,’ now serves as a new tourism attraction for the region. Visitors will learn about the lighthouse and its ties to the community though interpretative materials and have the opportunity to purchase local crafts.
“The Harbour Authority is pleased to create another new business in Souris, creating jobs and bringing more visitors to the area,” said Denis Thibodeau, Chairman, Souris Harbour Authority Inc. “Having attractions like the Souris Historic Lighthouse certainly entices folks to extend their visit which generates economic spin-offs in the town.”
From the lighthouse, guests can enjoy a panoramic view of Colville Bay, the Souris Port, the Northumberland Strait, the Town of Souris, the Isle de Madeleine ferry and, if the weather cooperates, the Cape Breton Highlands.
The Souris Historic Lighthouse is open from June through October.
FOR BROADCAST USE:
The Souris lighthouse, which has been a symbol of the town and surrounding area for 130 years, was officially re- opened today as a renewed tourist attraction for Eastern Prince Edward Island.
The Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans and the Honourable Allan Campbell, PEI’s Minister of Innovation and Advanced Learning were on hand to lead the opening ceremonies and to highlight the contribution the lighthouse continues to make to the community and its economy.
The lighthouse is open from June through October.
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INFORMATION:
Jana Parker
ACOA PEI & Tourism
902-368-0264
Ron Ryder
Communications Officer
Department of Innovation and Advanced Learning
902-620-3774
Gerry Gallant
Business Development
Souris Harbour Authority
902-628-9870
