News

Grand-Métis, Quebec, January 15, 2013 – On behalf of the Honourable Peter Kent, Canada’s Environment Minister and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, the Honourable Christian Paradis, Minister of Industry, Minister of State (Agriculture) and Regional Minister for Quebec, today announced a Government of Canada investment in the conservation of Jardins de Métis National Historic Site of Canada. This remarkable Canadian example of English-inspired gardens houses a vast wealth of flora, some varieties of which are unique to the country.

“Our government has taken a leadership role in the protection and promotion of Canada's invaluable and irreplaceable historical heritage such as the Jardins de Métis National Historic Site,” said Minister Paradis. “The new funding awarded will allow for the preservation, for future generations, of this remarkable historic site on the Gaspé Peninsula which attracted over 56,000 visitors last summer.”

Through Parks Canada’s National Historic Sites Cost-Sharing Program, the Government of Canada will be contributing up to $100,000 towards the installation of a fire protection system in the Villa Estevan , at the Jardins de Métis National Historic Site of Canada. This historic building was built in 1887 for Sir George Stephen, who at the time was President of Canadian Pacific Railway Limited.

“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 them 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 funding granted through Parks Canada’s Cost‑Sharing Program represents a generous contribution which will help us cover the conservation costs,” pointed out Alexander Reford, Director of the Jardins de Métis. “Our site will now be protected and preserved for future generations of visitors.”

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. 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 www.parkscanada.gc.ca under Media Room.