OTTAWA, June 2, 2014 /CNW/ - The Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of the Environment and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, announced today that Parks Canada will invest $10.05 million in the remediation of Province House National Historic Site.
Work will focus on repairs to the roof and windows, addressing water infiltration into the building and contributing to the preservation of the structure. Parks Canada and the Government of Prince Edward Island will continue to work together to define approaches to ensuring the conservation of Province House National Historic Site.
The Government of Canada recognizes the significance of Province House, which is intrinsically tied to the founding of Canada, and is pleased to announce this investment during the 2014 celebration year in commemoration of the 150th anniversary of the Charlottetown Conference, which took place at this iconic building in 1864. Today's announcement builds upon the Government of Canada's 2011 investment of $2 million for the preservation of period masonry and structural upgrades at Province House to prepare it as the backdrop for 2014 celebrations.
The Government of Canada is proud of its role in protecting and presenting all national historic sites under Parks Canada, as symbols of our shared national heritage and will continue to take steps to ensure the integrity of these sites for all Canadians.
Quick Facts
- Province House, as the only provincial legislature maintained by Park Canada, has benefitted from over $6.6 million in investments in the historic site since 1974, including more than $2.6 million in recent conservation work.
- Province House National Historic Site will play a prominent role throughout 2014 as part of the 150th anniversary celebrations.
- A call for design tenders will be launched during the anniversary year to ensure work can begin as soon as possible. Work will begin after 2014 celebrations conclude.
- A public design competition was launched in 1839 to build a legislative structure for Prince Edward Island. The cornerstone was laid at Province House in 1843, making the building 171 years old.
Quotes
"Our Government is proud of the investments we have made to support Province House to provide Canadians and visitors the opportunity to connect with our country's heritage. Today's investment of $10.05 million in Province House National Historic Site will ensure the conservation of this iconic structure"
The Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of the Environment and Minister responsible for Parks Canada
"Province House National Historic Site is a place where Islanders and visitors alike can immerse themselves in the history of our country. Our Government's investment reinforces our commitment to ensuring the integrity of this building and highlights the value placed on protecting and presenting our nation's heritage."
The Honourable Gail Shea, Member of Parliament for Egmont and Canada's Minister of Fisheries and Oceans
Associated Link
Recent investment in Province House National Historic Site
2011-08-14 Harper Government Restores Birthplace of Confederation
2013-12-27 Province House Ready to Shine For 2014
SOURCE: Parks Canada
Office of the Minister of the Environment
819-997-1441
Media Relations, Parks Canada
1-819-953-8371
(toll-free) 1-855-862-1812
Communications Officer, P.E.I. Field Unit
Jennifer Stewart
902-672-6389
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