Cabinet holds meeting in Evangeline and visits wharf development

EGMONT BAY, PEI – July 19, 2012 – Following a successful meeting Wednesday in Wellington, Cabinet members met with Evangeline residents and toured several provincially funded projects that will strengthen tourism and the local economy, says Premier Robert Ghiz.

“It is good for Cabinet to get out to the regions, particularly areas like Evangeline, where we are reminded of the deep attachment that Islanders have for their communities and culture,” said the Premier.  “These visits are also great opportunities for us to see first-hand, the difference that our provincial partnerships are making in Island communities.”

Cabinet members toured a major enhancement at the Egmont Bay wharf, which includes a fish mart, boardwalk, viewing deck, interpretive panels, storage building and commercial spaces.

The provincial government provided $75,000 to the project through the Island Community Fund and $53,823 from Skills PEI. A contribution was also made by the federal government.

Fisheries, Aquaculture and Rural Development Minister Ron MacKinley said the Island Community Fund supports projects that promote the strategic interests of the province,  Rural Action Plan initiatives and community projects across the Island.

“The Island Community Fund allows us to partner with communities on projects that they may not be able to fund on their own. The revitalization of the Egmont Bay harbour that we toured today is a great example of how successful these partnerships can be,” said the minister.

Cabinet also toured the Expo Centre in Abram-Village which is the heart of tourism and culture in the area.  It is home to summer dinner theatre, music and festivals such as the famous Atlantic Fiddlers Jamboree which is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year.

MLA Sonny Gallant said the summer cabinet tour is always a great opportunity for provincial, municipal and community leaders to discuss issues and share ideas. “We had some great meetings today that are sure to result in further improvements to the area,” he said.

-30-

CUTLINE: Following a provincial cabinet meeting in Wellington Wednesday, the ministers toured the new tourism development at Egmont Bay Wharf. Seen from left are Premier Robert Ghiz; Claude Degagné, treasurer of the Egmont Bay Harbour Authority; Norman Arsenault, chairman of the harbour authority; Evangeline-Miscouche MLA Sonny Gallant; RDÉE PEI’s interim executive director Bonnie Gallant; and Giselle Bernard, community development officer with the provincial Rural Action Centres.

For more information:
Geoff Townsend
Premier’s Office
gatownsend@gov.pe.ca
(902) 368-4400.