News Release

For immediate release August 02, 2002


SCUBA DIVING OPERATION ESTABLISHED IN DINGWALL 
WITH GOVERNMENT OF CANADA ASSISTANCE 

DINGWALL, N.S. - A growing number of scuba divers seeking new diving destinations will be attracted to the St. Paul Island Trading Company in Dingwall. Atlantic Dive Tours Incorporated will establish the six-month seasonal “scuba tourism” operation in Dingwall with assistance from the Government of Canada.

The total estimated cost of the project is $164,000. Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation (ECBC) will make a repayable contribution of $82,000 through the Business Development Program. The Northside Economic Development Corporation (NEDAC) will contribute $50,000. Three full-time seasonal jobs will be created. 

“Between the tip of Cape North and the coastal community of Ingonish lie the remains of over two hundred shipwrecks. The Government of Canada is pleased to assist this company in its efforts to develop the tourism potential of this maritime resource,” said Mark Eyking, MP for Sydney-Victoria, speaking on behalf of the Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of State for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency and ECBC.

“The opportunities for shipwreck diving around Nova Scotia make this a very desirable destination for divers from the U.K. and the North Eastern United States. We can offer a vast selection of attractions, activities and accommodations, a relatively short flight or drive time, and an excellent exchange rate. The support from the Government of Canada for our efforts to develop a diving destination is appreciated, and we look forward to the benefits this will bring to the community,” said Terry Dwyer, President, Atlantic Dive Tours Incorporated.

The operation is open for the 2002 tourism season. 

Funding for this project was provided for in the February 2000 Federal budget and is therefore built into the existing financial framework.

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

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FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CONTACT:
Peter A.H. Graham
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of State for
ECBC & ACOA
(613) 957-9959

Mark Eyking
Member of Parliament, Sydney-Victoria
(902) 567-6275

Mary Ann MacCormick
Communications Officer
Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation
Tel: (902) 564-7269

Terry Dwyer, President 
Atlantic Dive Tours Incorporated 
Tel: (902) 483-5561