Harper Government Launches Call for Proposals to Help Conserve Canada's National Historic Sites

OTTAWA, Jan. 6, 2015 /CNW/ - Today, the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of the Environment and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, announced the next call for proposals for Parks Canada's National Historic Sites Cost-Sharing Program. The Program conserves Canada's built heritage by helping to ensure Canada's historic sites can be enjoyed by future generations. Since 2009, the program has funded a total of 133 projects for the conservation of non-federally owned national historic sites.

Through Parks Canada's National Historic Sites Cost Sharing Program, up to 50% of eligible costs incurred in the conservation and presentation of a national historic site are reimbursed. The continuation of the Cost-Sharing Program demonstrates the Government's support for Parks Canada's mandate of protecting and presenting places of national historic significance, and fostering the public's understanding, appreciation and enjoyment of these places in ways that ensure their commemorative integrity for present and future generations.

As Canada nears its 150^th birthday in 2017, the Government of Canada invites Canadians to learn more about the major sites, persons and events that have shaped their country's history. Canada's national historic sites enable Canadians to experience their rich history and heritage in a special way and will play a big part in the celebration of Canada 150.

Quick Facts

• Parks Canada's National Historic Sites Cost-Sharing Program is the only contribution program aimed at ensuring the commemorative integrity of non-federally owned or administered national historic sites in Canada.
• Since 2009, the National Historic Sites Cost-Sharing Program has provided $17.7 million in contribution funds to non-federally owned or administered national historic sites for their conservation and presentation. To date, a total of 133 projects have been funded across the country.
• A recipient can be eligible to receive a maximum of $100,000 annually depending on the extent of conservation work and specific terms and conditions of a signed contribution agreement.
• Eligible recipients are not-for-profit organizations, Aboriginal organizations and other levels of government that are owners or eligible lessees of national historic sites.
• The next deadline to submit an application to the Program is February 20, 2015. Additional information and application forms are available on Parks Canada's website.
• Parks Canada works to ensure Canada's cultural and natural heritage is protected and, through a network of 44 national parks, 167 national historic sites and four national marine conservation areas invites Canadians and people around the world to engage in personal moments of inspiring discovery at our country's treasured natural and historic places.

Quote

"Our Government is committed to supporting Canada's National Historic Sites. Parks Canada's Cost-Sharing Program has a proven record in the conservation of the country's heritage. This program will continue to protect and improve Canada's irreplaceable national historic sites, while supporting local economies across Canada by creating jobs and promoting tourism."

The Honorable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of the Environment and Minister responsible for Parks Canada

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SOURCE Parks Canada

Office of the Minister of the Environment, 819-997-1441; Media Relations, Parks Canada, 1-855-862-1812, www.twitter.com/parkscanada