Government of Canada Invests in Fort Lennox National Historic Site
News release
Funding will support the restoration of the iconic barracks and improvements in visitor experience
August 20, 2018 Saint-Paul-de-l’Île-aux-Noix, Quebec Parks Canada Agency
Parks Canada is responsible for protecting and presenting nationally significant examples of Canada’s natural and cultural heritage. Our national historic sites reflect the rich and varied heritage of our nation and provide an opportunity for Canadians to learn more about our diverse history.
The Government of Canada has announced an investment of $7.9 million in the revitalization of the barracks at the Fort Lennox National Historic Site. Jean Rioux, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of National Defence and Member of Parliament for Saint-Jean, made the announcement today on behalf of the Honourable Catherine McKenna, Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada.
This infrastructure project will specifically involve strengthening and restoring the barracks and upgrading the visitor reception centre. This Parks Canada`s investment brings the total amount of funding received for Fort Lennox since June 2016 to $12 million.
The Fort Lennox National Historic Site is a British fortification whose historic buildings were built between 1819 and 1829. With no bridge or road connecting the island to the mainland, the site is only accessible by boat. The area is well loved by visitors, who flock to the site for various activities such as historical performances, guided tours, outdoor activities, and water sports.
Following the largest consultation ever conducted on Parks Canada, Minister McKenna put forward her priorities for Parks Canada through the Minister’s Round Table. Fort Lennox is an excellent example of the efforts made by Parks Canada to bring enable Canadian’s to discover, connect to and benefit from national historic sites and parks through innovative ideas.
The Government of Canada is committed to preserving the incredible ecological, cultural and economic value of historic sites and national parks to our country’s heritage, now and for generations to come.
Quotes
“Thanks to the added infrastructure at Fort Lennox, current and future visitors will be able to take full advantage of this national historic site in Saint-Paul-de-l’Île-aux-Noix. These historic investments will help reduce health and safety risks, prevent the loss of nationally significant heritage places, and stimulate the economy in communities across the country. You will find a rejuvenated national historic site where visitors can enjoy memorable and enriching experiences. In the coming years, Parks Canada will work to renew its service offering in collaboration with tourism stakeholders.”
Jean Rioux,
Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of National Defence and Member of Parliament for Saint-Jean
Quick facts
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The Fort Lennox National Historic Site will be closed to the public in 2018 and 2019 for major conservation work. These works will help protect our heritage and strengthen the interest of these places as representative places of our nation's achievements.
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The barracks is the most emblematic structure in Fort Lennox. It is an important piece of stonework spanning 74 metres long by 15 metres wide. The restoration work aims to stabilize its foundations and masonry structure. Visitor infrastructure, such as the food service area and multi-use areas, will be redesigned. These changes will allow us to provide visitors with a more authentic and meaningful experience. For more information, you can visit the Fort Lennox National Historic Site’s website and watch a video outlining the different steps of the barracks’ restoration.
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Parks Canada is investing an unprecedented $3 billion over 5 years to carry out infrastructure work at facilities located within national historic sites, national parks, and national marine conservation areas.
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Contacts
Caroline Thériault
Office of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change
819-938-3813
caroline.theriault2@canada.ca
Media Relations
Parks Canada Agency
855-862-1812
pc.media@pc.gc.ca
Marie-Claude Chiasson
Public Relations and Communications Officer
Mauricie and Western Quebec Field Unit
Parks Canada
514-240-3126
marie-claude.chiasson@pc.gc.ca