The historic 114-year-old Government House will undergo restoration work that will see a new visitor centre, an enlargement of the museum area and preliminary site development of the ceremonial entrance and arrival area. The $4.13 million project is expected to increase tourist traffic in Regina.

Ralph Goodale, Minister of Finance, today announced capital funding of $400,000 under the Canada-Saskatchewan Western Economic Partnership Agreement Program (WEPA). This project is funded through the new $50-million WEPA that was announced in September. The funding will be administered by Western Economic Diversification Canada.

"The Government House is a national historic site that welcomes thousands of school children and adults each year," Minster Goodale said. "Through this contribution, the Government of Canada is supporting an initiative that will allow thousands more to see this testament to the history of the West and Canada."

"We are pleased to work co-operatively with the federal government to promote the historical, educational and cultural value of this property. Government House is truly a Canadian treasure and this project will leave a legacy for future generations so that they may learn about Saskatchewan's history," Premier Calvert said.

When the Government House Centennial Project is completed, it will have doubled the property's capacity to host visitors. In May 2003 Minister Goodale announced the first federal funding for this project—$900,000 from Canadian Heritage though its Cultural Spaces Canada Program. From this funding, $700,000 will go toward the first phase of construction, which will begin in early the new year.

The Government House Heritage Property was the official residence of North West Territories Lieutenant Governors from 1891 to 1905, and of Saskatchewan Lieutenant Governors from 1905 to 1945. Now it serves as a museum, hosts the Lieutenant Governor of Saskatchewan's official guests and houses Her Honour's offices. Every year, over 25,000 visitors pass through its doors for tours and events held in its regal ballroom and conservatory.

Federal funding for this project was provided for in the February 2003 federal budget.

For additional information, contact:

Joanne Mysak
Manager, Communications
Western Economic Diversification Canada
Saskatoon, SK
Tel: (306) 975-5942

Maureen Boyle
Director, Communications
Government Relations and Aboriginal Affairs
Regina
Phone: (306) 787-5959
Fax: (306) 787-4181