The Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of State for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) and Newfoundland and Labrador’s representative in the federal cabinet, provided an update on $827,697 in projects that are progressing in central Newfoundland. The combined projects will create up to 1104 weeks of work for area residents, and, wherever possible, employment preference will be given to those who have been affected by the recent closure of the cod fishery.

“ACOA is pleased to work with communities such as Leading Tickles, Fogo, Tilting; and the Fogo Island Harbour Authority to enhance infrastructure that enriches the community and adds tourism potential,” said Minister Byrne. “These particular areas offer some of the most breathtaking scenery and activities our province is known for, such as icebergs, whale watching and hiking.”

Oceanview Park is Leading Tickles’ main tourist attraction, offering a playground, campgrounds, beaches and a trail leading to scenic Bear Cove Head. The $93,342 project is expected to generate up to 110 weeks of work. Improvements to the Park will include the construction of a performance stage for outdoor community events and renovations to an existing building on the site to accommodate tourism events such as lobster suppers. In addition, several lookout sites will be constructed and the existing park infrastructure will be enhanced. This project was approved by the Minister of State for ACOA on July 21, 2003

The Town of Tilting has recently been named as a National Historic Site and the community’s historic significance adds tourism appeal. The Town of Tilting will repair and stabilize several fishing stages, a boat sized shed, the community hall and other infrastructure in and around the community. This two year, $352,737 project will create up to 504 weeks of work. This project was approved by the Minister of State for ACOA on October 2, 2003.

The Town of Fogo is developing a trail network throughout the community, providing scenic outlooks and a safe passage for tourists. Starting near the old community of Lion’s Den, the trail will travel along to Eastern Tickle and Locke’s Cove. The trail will lead visitors to the School House Museum, the Bleak House Museum, and then to the Fogo Battery, proceeding to Brimstone Head Park. Professional services are being engaged to determine the most appropriate structure that will be located along the trail near the site of the former Marconi station. The Town is also making repairs to Fogo United Church, which is a registered Heritage Structure. The $342,286 project will create up to 430 weeks of work. This project was approved by the Minister of State for ACOA on August 12, 2003.

The Harbour Authority of Fogo Island plans to improve the area’s marine infrastructure. Upgrades, including the replacement of fenders, chocks and deck planks and the installation of ladders, will be made to wharves serving the communities of Fogo, Tilting and Joe Batt’s Arm. In addition, a 1000-gallon waste oil tank will be installed at Seldom and the Harbour Authority’s building will be renovated. The Harbour Authority of Fogo Island, incorporated in 1996, is one of the province’s largest harbour authorities, and serves approximately 180 vessels at six fishing harbours. The $39,332 project is expected to generate up to 60 weeks of work. This project was approved by the Minister of State for ACOA on August 18, 2003.

“I am pleased to see that these projects are progressing well and are having a dual benefit of creating much needed employment, while enhancing tourist and commercial infrastructure in Central Newfoundland,” Minister Byrne continued. “The purpose of the Strategic Community Investment Fund - Short Term Adjustment Initiative has been to provide assistance to those negatively affected by the closure of the northern cod fishery. The program is meeting with tremendous success in all of the affected areas and is progressing well.”

These initiatives are being funded through the Short Term Adjustment Initiative, a $25.8 million dollar program designed to meet the immediate needs of communities and individuals affected by the cod fishery closures. It is administered by ACOA.

Stephanie Lewis
Office of the Honourable Gerry Byrne,
Minister of State for ACOA
(613) 941-7241

Doug Burgess
Director, Public Affairs
ACOA 
(709) 772-2935