Prime Minister Stephen Harper was in Grosse Île, Quebec last Friday when he announced $30 million in support over three years for a major new tourism campaign, entitled Connecting America, to attract more American visitors to destinations across Canada.
The Prime Minister also announced $5.13 million in support for the Grosse Île and the Irish Memorial National Historic Site.
The island served as a quarantine station for the Port of Quebec until 1937, and it was where many Irish immigrants suffered during the typhus epidemic of 1847. At the time, the island was the main point of entry for immigrants coming to Canada. It also acted as the main point of entry for immigrants to Canada before the Second World War, including many Irish.
Prime Minister Harper said, “The support announced today for the Grosse Île and the Irish Memorial National Historic Site will ensure this important part of our cultural heritage remains a top destination in the Quebec City region for years to come.”
The support being provided for the Grosse Île and the Irish Memorial National Historic Site will help create jobs and opportunities by ensuring the integrity of the site is maintained for Canadians and international tourists to enjoy for years to come. It will allow Parks Canada to undertake the following activities:
Cost and timeframe: $1.95 million (2015-2017)
Project description: Replacement of existing air sprinkler systems with a longer-lasting, more resistant galvanized steel sprinkler system to offer better protection to the heritage buildings and the public in the event of a fire.
Cost and timeframe: $1.75 million (2015-2017)
Project description: Installation of new tanks and furnaces and addition of new protective components in compliance with Environment Canada’s recent federal regulations regarding the transfer and storage of petroleum products.
Cost and timeframe: $1.4 million (2015-2017)
Project description: Repairs to the roof and rehabilitation of dormers, lanterns, chimneys and pillars supporting the lavatory. Some outside walls will be straightened.
