Harper Government Announces Protection for Lighthouses

OTTAWA, May 29, 2015 /CNW/ - The Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of the Environment and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, today announced that 74 heritage lighthouses across Canada have been designated under the Heritage Lighthouse Protection Act.

The Heritage Lighthouse Protection Act is the most significant piece of federal legislation to protect historic lighthouses. For hundreds of years, lighthouses have ensured the safety of seafarers, making an essential contribution to the development of Canada, one of the world's great maritime nations.

Lighthouses that are designated under the Heritage Lighthouse Protection Act will have legal protection that will ensure they can be enjoyed and appreciated for generations to come. 

Nominated lighthouses will continue to be considered for designation under the Heritage Lighthouse Protection Act after May 29, 2015. Many community-based organizations and other levels of government have been working with the Government of Canada to identify and implement long-term plans for their cherished lighthouses.

Quick Facts

• Lighthouses are important tourist attractions in communities across Canada.
• Under the Heritage Lighthouse Protection Act, a surplus lighthouse that meets the designation criteria may be designated if a person or body submits a written commitment to buy or otherwise acquire the lighthouse and protect its heritage character.
• The Government of Canada will continue to facilitate the designation of as many heritage lighthouses as possible and ensure the protection of their heritage character for the benefit and enjoyment of generations to come.

Quote

"Our Government is committed to protecting and preserving our cultural heritage. Canada's heritage lighthouses are an integral part of the maritime identity of many Canadians. We will continue to work with communities across Canada in the hopes of designating and protecting as many heritage lighthouses as possible."

The Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of the Environment and Minister responsible for Parks Canada

Associated Link

Heritage Lighthouses of Canada

SOURCE Parks Canada

For further information: Jonathan Lefebvre, Office of the Minister of the Environment, 819-997-1441; Media Relations, Parks Canada, 1-855-862-1812, www.twitter.com/parkscanada