March 12, 2014 – Ottawa, Ontario – Office of the Minister of the Environment
The Honourable John Duncan, Minister of State and Member of Parliament for North Vancouver Island, on behalf of the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Canada's Environment Minister and Minister Responsible for Parks Canada, today designated British Columbia's fifth heritage lighthouse on the recommendation of the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada. The Nootka lighthouse, located on the ancestral territory of the Mowachaht–Muchalaht Nation on Vancouver Island, is now protected for years to come under Canada's Heritage Lighthouse Protection Act (HLPA).
The HLPA, which was adopted in 2008, allows for the protection of federally–owned lighthouses on Canadas coastal and inland waters that have significant heritage value. Administered by Parks Canada, the act helps ensure Canadas maritime history is protected for the benefit and enjoyment of present and future generations.
Canadians have nominated hundreds of lighthouses to be considered for designation under the Act.
Office of the Minister of the Environment
819–997–1441
Media Relations
Parks Canada
819–953–8371
www.twitter.com/parkscanada