Parks Canada
Symbol of the Government of Canada

News Releases and Backgrounders


News Releases


Government of Canada Supports the Preservation of History and Culture at North Pacific Cannery National Historic Site of Canada

Port Edward, British Columbia, January 18, 2013 -- On behalf of the Honourable Peter Kent, Canada’s Environment Minister and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages and Regional Minister for British Columbia, today announced an investment by the Government of Canada in the conservation of the North Pacific Cannery National Historic Site of Canada. The North Pacific Cannery commemorates the history and contributions of European, Asian and First Nations communities related to the development of the West Coast fishing industry and the industrial development of Canada.

“Our government has taken a leadership role in the protection and promotion of Canada's invaluable and irreplaceable historical heritage such as the North Pacific Cannery,” said Minister Moore. “This new funding will ensure the preservation of Port Edward’s treasured national historic site and will foster increased understanding and appreciation of those who contributed to the development of the West Coast fishing industry while continuing to support local tourism.”

Through Parks Canada’s National Historic Sites Cost-Sharing Program, the Government of Canada is contributing up to $100,000 to support conservation work on highly threatened cultural resources within the North Pacific Cannery complex, including the reduction plant, reduction tank platform and working dock.

“One of our Government’s major objectives is to inspire Canadians to develop strong and meaningful connections with Canada’s national treasures,” said Minister Kent. “Our national historic sites are vital to our history, our identity as Canadians, and our tourism industry. By investing in these sites, and by building lasting relationships with the community groups that operate them, we ensure that they will continue to help support local economies and encourage more Canadians to explore and discover our national heritage.”

“The restoration and conservation of the North Pacific Cannery is an exciting opportunity to restore a National Historic Site with significant historical and cultural heritage value and will provide opportunities for the public to engage with, and learn about the unique history of the Pacific North Coast,” said Mr. Steve Milum, Manager of Conservation and Operations, Port Edward Historical Society.

The Cost-Sharing Program reflects the Government of Canada’s dedication to protect Canada’s heritage through funding towards the conservation of our national historic sites. Through this program, Parks Canada is pleased to continue its efforts to ensure that Canada’s historic and natural heritage is protected for the enjoyment, education and appreciation of all Canadians, today and in the future.

For additional information, please see the accompanying backgrounder at parkscanada.gc.ca under Media Room.

-30-


Information:
Adam Sweet
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of the Environment
819-997-1441

Media Relations
Parks Canada
819-953-8371
www.twitter.com/parkscanada


Backgrounder associated with this News Release.