Lamèque – Canada has much to offer visitors from coast to coast to coast: breathtaking landscapes and wide open spaces; diverse and inclusive experiences and welcoming people who provide outstanding service. Combined with tourism operators and workers who are firmly focused on visitor experience excellence, Canada is a globally recognized destination of choice. The Government of Canada is here to help Atlantic Canadian tourism businesses, organizations and operators strengthen and grow the industry, attract more visitors to the region, and develop fresh approaches to delivering world-class experiences.
Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Official Languages and Minister responsible for ACOA, alongside Serge Cormier, Member of Parliament for Acadie-Bathurst, announced a Government of Canada investment of $968,846 for the Carrefour Coop Ltée in Lamèque to create a new interpretation centre. ACOA is contributing $500,000 through the Tourism Relief Fund (TRF), and the Department of Canadian Heritage is providing $468,846 for the Development of Official Language Communities Program through the Community Spaces Fund.
The Province of New Brunswick is also providing $400,000 through the Regional Development Corporation and $250,000 through the Canada Community Building Fund. The new interpretation centre will celebrate the Acadian cooperative movement that helped drive growth in sectors including renewable energy and fishing. With renovations to two existing buildings, the Carrefour Coop will feature videos, immersive experiences, cultural and historical displays, and allow visitors to climb aboard fishing vessels. The centre will be a unique and integral part of the Acadian Peninsula’s tourism cluster.
Launched in July 2021, the TRF has helped organizations and businesses in the tourism sector upgrade their offering of innovative products and services, enticing visitors to visit, and reinvigorating the economy. Canada’s regional development agencies have been delivering the $485 million in TRF support.
“We have so much to be proud of in our beautiful region, and so much to share with visitors. With the support announced today, we are recognizing the tourism sector’s vital importance to our economy, and helping the Carrefour Coop in Lamèque develop a world-class experience that makes Atlantic Canada such a sought-after destination. With projects like this, we are contributing to the momentum of a strong and brighter future in Atlantic Canada.” – Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Official Languages and Minister responsible for ACOA