News Release

For immediate release
February 13, 2004


Technology and Tourism Demonstrate the Diversity of the
Cape Breton Economy

SYDNEY, N.S. – Two important community infrastructure projects, - the Sydney Ports Corporation and the Bell Institute, were announced today by Sydney-Victoria MP, the Honourable Mark Eyking.

The Sydney Ports Corporation will implement phase II of its on-going redevelopment of the Sydney Marine Terminal to take advantage of the growing number of cruise ships calling on the Port. Improvements include building renovations, the addition of a “Welcome Plaza”, general site upgrades and new signage. A stage area will be developed as well as off-stage space for entertainers. This room will be made available to visiting crew members who will be able to use it as a lounge area while in Port.

In 2003, about 48,000 passengers and 21,000 crew members arrived in Sydney. More than 95 per cent of passengers and 50 per cent of the crew disembarked. The total benefit to the Cape Breton economy was approximately $5.0 million.

The Alexander Graham Bell Institute of the University College of Cape Breton (UCCB) has plans to research and develop a Liberated Learning Showcase to be tested at the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site in Baddeck. Working in partnership with IBM and Saint Mary’s University, the Institute will adapt new voice recognition software to devices that facilitate communication with the hearing and speech impaired.

“The projects announced today highlight the diversity of the Cape Breton economy, “said MP Mark Eyking. “Sydney’s appeal as a cruise ship destination continues to grow and the Sydney Port redevelopment enhances the Island’s tourism industry. The development of the Liberated Learning Showcase contributes to branding Cape Breton as an emerging technology-wise community.”
The total estimated cost of phase II of the Sydney Port Redevelopment is
$2.5 million. Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation will provide a $1 million
non-repayable contribution through ACOA’s Strategic Community Investment Fund and an additional $1 million non-repayable contribution through ACOA’s Business Development Program.

The total estimated cost of the Liberated Learning Showcase is $1,551,900. Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation will provide a non-repayable contribution of $395,520 through the Strategic Community Investment Fund.

The Bell Institute of UCCB was incorporated in 1977 and is dedicated to the memory of Dr. Alexander Graham Bell and his work. It is directed by a Board of Trustees representing the Bell family, UCCB and members of the community.

The Strategic Community Investment Fund provides $135 million over five years to help communities in Atlantic Canada create an environment that encourages and enhances the development of strategic sectors.

Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation offers programs in support of economic development initiatives and is responsible for delivering ACOA's programs in Cape Breton and the Mulgrave area.


FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CONTACT:

Stephen Heckbert
Office of the Honourable Joseph McGuire
Tel: (613) 948-7293

John Coady
Office of Mark Eyking
MP, Sydney-Victoria
Tel.: (902) 567-6275

Stephen Kavanagh
Chair, Sydney Ports Corporation Inc.
Sydney Ports Corporation
Tel: (902) 564-4377

Ron MacNeil
Executive Director
Bell Institute
Tel: (902) 565-3182

D.A. Landry
Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation
Tel: (902) 564-3617