In February, Gord announced further funding for the Fort Wellington Visitor’s Centre to enhance it’s display in time for the 1812 celebrations. The money will be used to build a display for the preserved British gunboat hull that is currently at Mallorytown Landing. To the right are; John Grenville, Eastern Ontario National Historic Sites Program Manager, Parks Canada and Don Marrin, Eastern Ontario Field Unit Superintendent, Parks Canada.


Canada’s Economic Action Plan at work in Ontario

Prescott - On behalf of the Honourable Jim Prentice, Canada’s Environment Minister and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, Gord Brown, Member of Parliament for Leeds-Grenville, today announced major investment in Fort Wellington National Historic Site of Canada. This project is part of Canada’s Economic Action Plan.

“This investment of up to $1.1 million in this iconic National Historic Site of Canada will not only help preserve and improve this treasured place, it will also provide local construction jobs and economic activity which will help encourage tourism in Prescott,” said Brown.

Canada’s Economic Action Plan sets aside $374 million for improvements of facilities and protection of Canada’s national parks and national historic sites. As a result of these investments in national parks and national historic sites, many skilled men and women in construction, tourism and conservation sectors will be hired in every province and territory of Canada.

Today’s announcement provides funding for an enhanced 1812 themed exhibit for Fort Wellington National Historic Site. The exhibit will feature a preserved British gunboat hull. At over 50 feet long, the gunboat hull is an authentic artefact that will help to vividly illustrate the story of the War of 1812.

“The Government of Canada is committed to acting quickly and effectively to implement Canada’s Economic Action Plan,” said Minister Prentice. “I’m pleased to announce our government’s investment in this exciting new initiative that will encourage tourism and highlight an important period of Canadian heritage to visitors at Fort Wellington National Historic Site of Canada.”

Tourism represents a significant economic opportunity for Canada and, for this reason, has been targeted in Canada’s Economic Action Plan. In 2007, the tourism sector contributed approximately $28.6 billion to the Canadian economy and employed 653,400 Canadians. Canada’s Economic Action Plan is our government’s plan to stimulate our economy during the global recession by restoring confidence and supporting workers and families.

Parks Canada works to ensure that Canada’s historic and natural heritage is presented and protected for the enjoyment, education and appreciation of all Canadians, today and in the future. Through a network of 42 national parks, 167 national historic sites, and three national marine conservation areas, Parks Canada sets the stage and invites Canadians, as well as people from around the world, to engage in personal moments of inspiring discovery of our treasured natural and historic places.