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OSHAWA, ONTARIO, August 11, 2009- -The Government of Canada is providing infrastructure funding to Parkwood National Historic Site of Canada, announced Mr. Colin Carrie, Member of Parliament for Oshawa, on behalf of the Honorable Jim Prentice, Minister of the Environment and Minister responsible for Parks Canada. Today’s announcement is part of Canada’s Economic Action Plan to upgrade national historic sites and stimulate growth in the tourism sector.

“This project will assist Parkwood to thrive and be enjoyed by families for generations to come,” said MP Colin Carrie. “I am inviting everyone to learn and experience something special about our great province by visiting this wonderful national historic site.”

Through Parks Canada’s National Historic Sites Cost-Share Program, the Government of Canada is contributing $324,500 to support the Parkwood project, which consists of both a preparatory assistance project, and a conservation project. The former involves a study of the greenhouses, and the estate’s conservation requirements. Its long-term thinking will establish museum themes, creating potential for future public programs and volunteer opportunities. The conservation portion of the project includes work on the heating and ventilation systems, electrical systems, and conservation of the roof and its various elements.

“This project will help make Parkwood a destination of choice for travellers from around the world,” said Minister Prentice. “In our Economic Action Plan, we recognize the importance of Canada’s national historic sites and the value of preserving them for future generations.”

"This funding is a tremendous boost for preservation efforts at Parkwood, and a real vote of confidence for board, staff and volunteers,” said Brian Malcolm, Executive Director of the Parkwood Foundation. “Stewardship of Parkwood's amazing physical resources and the stories they represent is an immense privilege, but it's a challenge as well. We are grateful to the Government of Canada for its partnership role in helping us ensure Parkwood's protection and enhancement through the National Historic Sites of Canada Cost-Sharing Program."

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 by providing funding for presentation and 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 historical and natural heritage is presented and protected for the enjoyment, education and appreciation of all Canadians, today and in the future.

Canada’s Economic Action Plan invests in heritage infrastructure at Parkwood National Historic Site of Canada