Notes for an address to announce funding for Rideau Canal repairs – Monday, May 11, 2009-06-18

May 11, 2009

Thank you, Marjolène. And thanks to all of you for being here today.

I am delighted to be here today on behalf of the Honourable Jim Prentice, Canada’s Environment Minister and Minister responsible for Parks Canada.

Minister Prentice has asked me to convey his best regards and to tell you how proud he is of Parks Canada’s role as stewards of Canada’s treasures.

I am very happy to be here with you today because of my very particular affection for our national parks and national historic sites.
To me, they represent the very best that Canada has to offer. From Cape Spear, the most easterly point of land in North America to Pacific Rim National Park, in British Columbia, Parks Canada presents and protects significant examples of our cultural and natural heritage.
One of these special places, and one of my favourites, is the Rideau Canal.
Like many residents living close to the Rideau Canal, it has always been part of my life. It’s an incredible playground.
In the summer, you can go to any lockstation and picnic with your friends and family, paddle the waterway, learn about the history of the region and in the winter skate the frozen waterway.
As residents of Eastern Ontario we are lucky to have Ontario’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site in our own backyard.   
Today, I have the privilege to announce good news about the Rideau Canal, and specifically about the Narrows Lockstation Swing Bridge.
As you know, earlier this year our government adopted a budget with nearly 40 billion dollars aimed at stimulating economic growth and job creation this year and the following.
As outlined in the Plan, our Government is taking immediate action to improve Canada’s infrastructure - our roads, wastewater treatment plants, bridges and harbours.
That budget set aside 75 million dollars for improvements to visitor facilities in our parks and national historic sites and another 75 million dollars for the protection of our national historic sites.
I am pleased to announce a $100,000 investment in the Narrows Lockstation Swing Bridge.
Built in 1898, this historic Swing Bridge is still operated today by using hand-pushed sweeps.
One of only two examples of a pony truss swing bridge on the canal – and my thanks to Ken Watson for that piece of information - it is the busiest swing bridge on the Rideau waterway.
This project will include the concrete repair of the abutments and asphalt repair of the approaches. Signs and roadside safety will also be improved at the bridge.
Through this investment, made possible by Canada’s Economic Action Plan, we are taking the necessary steps to offer visitors who choose to visit our national historic site a safe, enjoyable and unforgettable experience.
Our national parks, national historic sites and national marine conservation areas are important contributors to Ontario’s tourism industry.
This industry represents a significant economic opportunity for Canada.
This investment in this important tourism attraction will not only help preserve and improve this treasured place, it will also stimulate local economic activity and help to encourage tourism in Ontario.
This infrastructure investment in the Narrows Lockstation Swing Bridge will encourage visitors to travel to and appreciate the Rideau Canal’s rich heritage.
Through this investment, our government is reaffirming our commitment to the family of national parks and national historic sites.
We are ensuring that they will continue to offer visitors exceptional opportunities for memorable experiences for generations to come.
Thank you.