10 January 2012
Makkovik, Newfoundland and Labrador
A new multi-purpose cultural tourism centre will be constructed in the Inuit community of Makkovik thanks in part to a Government of Canada investment announced today by Peter Penashue, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs and President of the Queens Privy Council, and Newfoundland and Labrador’s representative in the federal cabinet, on behalf of Bernard Valcourt, Minister of State for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA). The contribution of $131,000 from the Government of Canada will help the centre assist the community in its efforts to retain its rich Inuit heritage and culture, while providing new opportunities for small business growth.
“Our government’s twin priorities are economic growth for Canada and jobs for Canadians,” said Minister Penashue. “This investment in the Makkovik Centre addresses those priorities by supporting the development of a facility that will serve as a focal point in the community for tourism and which will support the related business development interests of local artisans and tourism operators.
The centre will be housed in a 1600 square foot building to be constructed at the corner of Harmony Road and Middle Drive in Makkovik.
“Craft production is a significant contributor to community life here in Makkovik,” said Janine Lightfoot, Economic Development and Tourism Coordinator with the Makkovik Inuit Community Government. “The programs and services offered at the centre will help cultivate and support the development of small business in the community.”
Federal funding for this project is provided through ACOA’s Innovative Communities Fund, which focuses on initiatives that build capacity for sustainable economic growth and long-term employment in rural communities.
FOR BROADCAST USE:
The community of Makkovik will build a new multi-purpose cultural centre with a contribution of $131,000 from the federal government. The funding for the 1600 square foot facility was announced today by Labrador’s Member of Parliament and federal cabinet minister Peter Penashue. The Centre will offer programs and services designed to assist the development of small business and craft production sector in the community.
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INFORMATION:
Doug Burgess
Director, Public Affairs
ACOA NL
709-772-2935
Janine Lightfoot
Economic Development and Tourism Co-ordinator
Makkovik Inuit Community Government
709-923-2221
Cory Hann
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Intergorvernmental Affairs and
President of the Queen’s Privy Council for Canada
613-943-1838
