Canada's Economic Action Plan Invests in Heritage Infrastructure at John R. Booth Residence National Historic Site

OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Aug. 10, 2009) - On behalf of the Honorable Jim Prentice, Minister of the Environment and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, Mr. Royal Galipeau, Member of Parliament for Ottawa-Orleans, announced today that the Government of Canada is providing infrastructure funding to John R. Booth Residence National Historic Site of Canada. Today's announcement is part of Canada's Economic Action Plan to upgrade national historic sites. "This project will help the John R. Booth Residence provide Canadians with a better understanding of the early days of our national capital, when lumber was the primary business in Ottawa", said Minister Prentice. "In our recent Economic Action Plan, we recognized the importance of Canada's national historic sites, and the value of preserving them for future generations". Through Parks Canada's National Historic Sites Cost-Share Program, a contribution of $25,000 will support the conservation and restoration project that will address the exterior masonry, foundation and front steps at the John R. Booth Residence National Historic Site of Canada. "Our nation's capital offers many rich and interesting experiences for visitors as well as for the local community," added MP Royal Galipeau. "It is vital that we continue to preserve our national historic places, like the John R. Booth Residence, and I am inviting everyone to learn about Ottawa's many national historic sites". Home to the Laurentian Leadership Centre, a part of Trinity Western University based in British Columbia, the University is committed to maintaining the architectural and historical integrity of the John R. Booth Residence. "On behalf of Trinity Western University, we are delighted to receive this much needed funding," stated Janet Epp Buckingham, Director of the Laurentian Leadership Centre. "It allows us to move forward on restoring the exterior of the building to preserve it for future generations on this, the 100th anniversary of the mansion." National Historic Sites contribute to tourism in over 400 communities across Canada through direct spending, visitor spending and spin-off economic activity. The Cost-Sharing Program, with a budget of $20 million provided in part by Canada's Economic Action Plan, reflects the government's desire to support job creation in the built heritage sector by providing funding for conservation of National Historic Sites. This Program provides opportunities for skilled construction and conservation professionals to work on historic places across the country. The National Historic Sites of Canada Cost-Sharing Program is a contribution program whereby up to 50% of eligible costs incurred in the conservation and presentation of a national historic site are paid by the Program. Eligible recipients include other levels of government, not-for-profit organizations and not-for-profit aboriginal organizations. Parks Canada works to ensure that Canada's historic and natural heritage is presented and protected for the enjoyment, education and appreciation of all Canadians, today and in the future. Also available on the Internet at www.pc.gc.ca under Media room.