News Release

For immediate release
March 10, 2004

GOVERNMENT OF CANADA ASSISTANCE FOR ENHANCED COMMUNITY INFRASTRUCTURE ON ISLE MADAME

Arichat, N.S. – Development Isle Madame Association Inc. (DIMA) will continue its redevelopment of the Arichat waterfront with assistance from the Government of Canada. The funding was announced today by Bras
d’Or – Cape Breton MP Rodger Cuzner. Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation (ECBC) is providing $319,108 in non-repayable assistance to support this community-driven investment.

“The Government of Canada is pleased to partner with community groups who are committed to strengthening the local economy,” says Rodger Cuzner. “The redevelopment of the Arichat waterfront serves to build on the tourism potential of the area while providing improved amenities for local residents.”

This latest phase of the Arichat waterfront redevelopment involves the renovation of the Lorenzo Building to establish a visitors’ centre, museum and art gallery, as well as a genealogy centre and office space. There will also be a number of site improvements to the area adjacent to the building.

“The continued development of the Arichat waterfront has both historical and cultural significance and will provide visitors with a unique cultural experience, says Jason Boudrot, DIMA Chairperson. “It is a focal point for the entire community and promotes further economic activity.”

The total cost of this phase of the development is $452,291. ECBC will provide a non-repayable contribution of $319,108 through the Strategic Community Investment Fund (SCIF).

DIMA is a community-based development organization with a mandate to improve economic conditions on Isle Madame. Recent DIMA initiatives have included the development of the Cap Auget hiking trail, Le Noir Forge Museum and the on-going development of the Arichat waterfront.

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

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.


FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CONTACT:

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

Office of Rodger Cuzner, MP
Bras d’Or –Cape Breton
Tel: (902) 842-9763

Jason Boudrot
Chairperson, Development Isle Madame Association Inc.
Tel: (902) 226-1918

Rick Beaton
Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation
Tel: (902) 564-3618