Two unique tourism development projects in Manitoba will receive $433,400 in federal and provincial funding through the Canada-Manitoba Economic Partnership Agreement.

The Honourable Greg Selinger, Minister of Finance for Manitoba, and the Honourable Reg Alcock, President of the Treasury Board, on behalf of the Honourable Stephen Owen, Minister of Western Economic Diversification and Minister of State (Sport) made the announcement today.

The National Grain Elevator and annexes will be restored as the final phase of the project undertaken by the Inglis Area Heritage Committee to complete the row of five grain elevators at the Inglis Grain Elevators National Historic Site. This site provides a lasting agricultural legacy, creates educational opportunities and complements other tourism destinations in the region. Canada, Manitoba and the Inglis Area Heritage Committee are each contributing $91,700 to the project.

The Rivers West - Red River Corridor Association is working with communities to develop programs and other activities to promote tourism and conservation along the Red River. Canada and Manitoba are each providing $125,000 to the initiative, which will raise the profile of the Red River corridor from a tourism development perspective and promote ecological sustainability through resource stewardship.

Manitoba's farming heritage will be preserved for future generations at the Inglis Grain Elevators National Historic site," said Minister Selinger. "Our founding communities formed along the Red River, and this tourism initiative will help others to enjoy the natural beauty of this historic waterway."

A vibrant tourism industry is vital to the 21 st century economy, accounting for approximately $1.4 billion in revenue and employing over 60,000 people in Manitoba alone ," said Minister Alcock. "The Government of Canada is pleased to support these tourism projects which celebrate Manitoba's natural, historic features, rich heritage, cultural diversity and welcoming hospitality."

Manitoba's Culture Heritage and Tourism department also provided $80,000 for Rivers West. "This initiative will package and promote the many wonderful tourist attractions along the Red River between the Canada /US border at Emerson all the way up to the mouth of the river at Selkirk," said Minister Eric Robinson.

In December 2003, the governments of Canada and Manitoba entered into a four-year $50 million Canada-Manitoba Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA). T he two strategic priorities of the agreement are "building our economy" and "sustainable communities."

Together, and in partnership with community stakeholders, Canada and Manitoba are working to strengthen and diversify Manitoba's economy, build on existing economic strengths, enhance the skills of Manitoba's workforce and promote regional development.

Federal funding for this initiative was provided for in the March 2004 budget.

For additional information, contact:

Terri Hooper
Communications Coordinator,
Canada-Manitoba Economic Partnership Agreement
(204) 945-7805
 
Graham Gork
Communications Coordinator,
Communication Services Manitoba
(204) 945-5795
http://www.gov.mb.ca/

Jacquie Sippola
Communications Officer,
Western Economic Diversification Canada
(204) 983-0280