Government of Canada Announces Funding for the Unikkaarvik Visitor Centre
IQALUIT, March 7, 2003, 2003 -- Nancy Karetak-Lindell, Member of Parliament (Nunavut) and Vice Chair of the Standing Committee on Aboriginal Affairs, Northern Development and Natural Resources, on behalf of Minister of Canadian Heritage Sheila Copps, today announced funding of $88,000 for the Government of Nunavut's Department of Sustainable Development to help finance the redesign of the Unikkaarvik Visitor Centre in Iqaluit."I am proud to be part of a Government that recognizes and supports the value and contribution of cultural institutions in the North," said Ms. Karetak-Lindell. "This investment will improve Canadians' access to arts and heritage experiences, and will enrich our communities' cultural life."
This funding will help the visitor centre upgrade lighting, sound, audio-visual and security equipment which will be used toward professional and modern exhibits, displays and activities.
The territory's Department of Sustainable Development was established with the creation of Nunavut Territory on April 1, 1999. Its Division of Parks and Tourism is responsible for coordinating, funding and operating the Unikkaarvik Visitor Centre. One of several tourism centres across Nunavut, it was established in 1994 and profiles the heritage, culture and environment of the Baffin Region.
Financial assistance is provided by the Department of Canadian Heritage, through the Cultural Spaces Canada program. Under this program, the Department covers up to one-third of eligible costs of building and renovating arts and heritage facilities, and adapting buildings for use as arts or heritage facilities. This Program also finances up to half the costs of new equipment and feasibility studies.
Funding for the initiative was provided for in the February 2003 federal Budget.
Information:
Sonya-Kim St-Julien
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage
(819) 997-7788
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