The Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of State for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), announced today that ACOA will invest $1.2 million toward the French Fort Cove Winter Activity Centre.

"The Government of Canada, through ACOA, is committed to enhancing economic opportunities and building strong communities throughout Atlantic Canada," said Charles Hubbard, Member of Parliament for the Miramichi, "This announcement shows a strong commitment to the Miramichi region."

"This government recognizes the importance of maximizing the growth and job creation potential of a strong tourism sector. I am confident that the new facility at French Fort Cove will act as a focal point for tourism activities in the Miramichi area." said the Honourable Claudette Bradshaw, Minister of Labour and Member of Parliament for Riverview-Moncton-Dieppe on behalf of Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of State for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency.

ACOA is providing $1,251,000 toward the construction of a 33,000 square foot complex in the French Fort Cove area. This Centre would include a multi-functional tourism centre, natural interpretive displays, interactive computer displays and other areas such as administrative offices, boardrooms and gift shop. As well, the facility will house a curling rink and activity centre. This multi-purpose centre is well positioned to take advantage of tourism markets that focus on outdoor adventure, cultural experiences and winter activities.

"This Winter Activity Centre is an extremely important tourism initiative for the Miramichi," said Rupert Bernard, Mayor of the City of Miramichi. "I would personally like to thank the members of the French Fort Cove Commission and others for their tenacity in seeing this project through."

This funding commitment was originally being contemplated under the Canada/New Brunswick Regional Economic Development Agreement but is now being conducted under ACOA's Strategic Community Investment Fund.

For more information on ACOA's programs, visit our web site at: www.acoa-apeca.gc.ca.

To view a conceptual design of the building, visit: http://www.acoa-apeca.gc.ca/e/photo.html.

Corey Hobbs
Office of the Minister of State for ACOA
Telephone:  (613) 957-9959

Patrick Lacroix
Regional Communications Manager
ACOA NB
(506) 452-3113