Scientific upgrades will help expand research work
November 21, 2014 – St. Andrews, NB – Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)
Thanks to support from the federal government, the Huntsman Marine Science Centre can proceed with plans to upgrade its facilities.
John Williamson, Member of Parliament for New Brunswick Southwest, on behalf of the Honourable Rob Moore, Regional Minister for New Brunswick and Minister of State (Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency), joined Huntsman Marine Science Centre officials to make the announcement today.
The Government of Canada, through ACOA’s Innovative Communities Fund, is investing $800,000 in this project, while the Huntsman Marine Science Centre is providing $129,000.
The project involves various upgrades and improvements to many of the Huntsman Marine Science Centre facility’s buildings and departments as well as its website.
Quick Facts
- The Huntsman Marine Science Centre has been an active steward of the ocean resource by finding ways to educate citizens about the oceans for the past 45 years. The education programs of the Huntsman have been pioneering; knowledge-based activities that have influenced the development of highly qualified personnel in the marine sciences and the oceans industry sector of the Canadian economy. The hands-on school programs have engaged over 42,000 students - ranging from elementary school age to university graduate level.
- The Huntsman has also welcomed over 800,000 members of the general public through the operation of its aquarium facility, informing visitors to the region about Canada's east coast marine ecology and the marine based economy.
- The project upgrades include modifications and improvements to Huntsman's laboratory, aquaculture, education, and residence facilities, as well as the Huntsman Fundy Discovery Aquarium and the Atlantic Reference Centre.
- The Innovative Communities Fund (ICF) invests in strategic projects that build the economies of Atlantic Canada's communities. The Fund focuses on investments that lead to long-term employment and economic capacity building in rural communities. Urban initiatives that stimulate the competitiveness and vitality of rural communities may be considered on a selective basis.
Quotes
“Our Government’s top priority remains job creation and economic growth. Our investment in these important upgrades at the Huntsman Marine Science Centre is an example of how government can help enhance opportunities at the facility and promote economic and research activity in New Brunswick.”
- John Williamson, Member of Parliament for New Brunswick Southwest, on behalf of the Honourable Rob Moore, Regional Minister for New Brunswick and Minister of State (Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency)
“Since 1969, the Huntsman Marine Science Centre has provided innovative education, scientific, research, and development services related to our coastal and ocean resources. This project will support strategic investments we are making in the Huntsman as we continue to grow and evolve, and work with the world-class cluster of expertise in the region.”
- Dr. Jamey Smith, Executive Director - Huntsman Marine Science Centre
Associated Links
Contacts
Kelsie Corey
Director of Communications
Office of the Honourable Rob Moore
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
613-941-7241
Ann Kenney
Senior Communications Officer
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
506-452-3687
Dr. Jamey Smith
Executive Director
Huntsman Marine Science Centre
506-529-1200
