September 22, 2014 – O’Leary, PEI – Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
The Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, on behalf of the Honourable Rob Moore, Minister of State (Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency), and PEI Minister of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Rural Development, Ron MacKinley, today announced investments that will enable the O’Leary Centennial Museum and Library Association Ltd., to carry out upgrades to the Canadian Potato Museum. This project will better position the facility to host small and large events throughout the year.
Staff and volunteers at the Canadian Potato Museum are preparing to welcome the PEI Potato Growers and Celebrity Chef Chuck Hughes at “Toe Taps & Taters,” a 2014 Fall Flavours signature event. Expected to be a sell-out, this event will take place on Friday, September 26th.
Quick Facts:
- The Government of Canada is supporting this project with a $12,485 investment through ACOA’s Business Development Program.
- The Government of Prince Edward Island, through its Community Development Program, will contribute $12,485 to this project.
- The O’Leary Centennial Museum and Library Association Ltd. is a non-profit organization that owns and operates the Canadian Potato Museum with a mission to record, preserve and communicate the story of the family farmer and the potato industry in PEI.
- This project involves the construction of movable platforms, a ramp, and shelving – all to carefully maneuver and display antique farm equipment. Outdoor upgrades include a patio extension, painting and fencing, all to better position the museum to host events through the year.
Quotes:
“I am pleased to announce our Government’s investment in the O’Leary Centennial Museum and Library Association, for upgrades and improvements to the Canadian Potato Museum that will enable it to host more major functions. Our Government has a proven track record of supporting modern infrastructure in communities across the country, and this project is a fine example.”
- The Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, on behalf of the Honourable Rob Moore, Minister of State (Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency)
"Prince Edward Island's potato industry has a rich history and is the backbone of many rural communities. The Province of Prince Edward Island is pleased to support these upgrades and bring further economic development opportunities to the area."
- The Honourable Ron MacKinley, Minister of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Rural Development
“Our mission here at the Canadian Potato Museum is to celebrate all things “potato.” We are very pleased to have support from the federal and provincial governments for our upgrades and expansion. This project will allow us to accommodate large-scale events like our upcoming “Toes, Taps & Taters,” Fall Flavours signature event and also host gatherings throughout the year.”
- Mr. Stanley MacDonald, Board of Directors President, Canadian Potato Museum
Associated Links:
Contacts:
Kelsie Corey
Director of Communications
Office of the Honourable Rob Moore
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
613-941-7241
Jana Parker
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
902-368-0264
April Gallant
Communications PEI
902-368-5286
Stanley MacDonald
Board of Directors President, Canadian Potato Museum
902-859-2039
