PORT ALBERNI, BRITISH COLUMBIA -- (Marketwire) -- 12/10/11 -- On behalf of the Honourable Peter Kent, Canada's Environment Minister and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, Dr. James Lunney, Member of Parliament for Nanaimo-Alberni, today announced that the Government of Canada will be investing in the conservation of McLean Mill National Historic Site.
"It is exciting to be able to invest in a site that celebrates such an important part of Port Alberni and British Columbia's history," said MP Lunney. "The McLean Mill National Historic Site helps Canadians appreciate our rich logging heritage in an unforgettable setting. By investing in its rehabilitation, we are also helping to strengthen local tourism."
McLean Mill, located on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, is a rare surviving example of an early to mid-20th century logging and lumber operation. Established in 1925, the mill was a family-run business until 1965. As years went on, it expanded into an industrial complex including a steam-operated sawmill, wooden residences and administrative buildings, a rail line, and facilities for a steam-powered locomotive. McLean Mill was designated a national historic site in 1989.
Through Parks Canada's National Historic Sites Cost-Sharing Program, the Government of Canada will be contributing up to $48,079 for conservation work on various parts of the historic sawmill complex.
"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."
"We're really excited and pleased with the funding. Parks Canada has been an integral part of the McLean National Historic Site since its designation in 1989," said Neil Malbon, General Manager for the McLean Mill. "The funds will ensure the long term preservation of the sawmill complex, and in doing so protect the initial investment by Parks Canada and partners. The McLean Mill National Historic Site, with its buildings and equipment, commemorates the British Columbia forest industry and provides the public with a link to their industrial heritage, a source of community pride, and a focus for multigenerational interaction."
Parks Canada's 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. In this centennial year, 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.
Contacts:
Office of the Minister of the Environment
819-997-1441
Media Relations
Parks Canada
819-953-8371