Three More Designated Heritage Lighthouses in Newfoundland and Labrador

Protected Under Federal Legislation

OTTAWA, March 26, 2014 /CNW/ - Today, the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Canada's Environment Minister and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, designated three more iconic lighthouses in Newfoundland and Labrador under Canada's Heritage Lighthouse Protection Act on the recommendation of the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada. The Long Point (Twillingate), Fort Amherst and Cape Ray heritage lighthouses, from which visitors can admire awe-inspiring landscapes, are now protected.

The Heritage Lighthouse Protection Act, which was adopted in 2008, allows for the protection of federally owned lighthouses on Canada's coastal and inland waters that have significant heritage value. Administered by Parks Canada, the Act helps ensure that Canada's maritime history is protected for the benefit and enjoyment of present and future generations.

Canadians have nominated hundreds of lighthouses to be considered for designation under the Act.

Quick Facts

• The Long Point lighthouse in Crow Head (Twillingate Island), built in 1876, consists of a brick tower embedded in reinforced concrete, which gives it a unique visual profile.
• The Fort Amherst lighthouse in St. John's can be seen from the Signal Hill National Historic Site of Canada. It is located on the site of a former British fort built in the 18^th century.
• The Cape Ray lighthouse in Cape Ray is the third in a series of lighthouses erected on the same elevated spot on the province's southwest coast. It is still in operation and guides ships navigating through Cabot Strait.
• The Point Amour lighthouse, which was designated a heritage lighthouse under the HLPA in December 2013, is the first designated lighthouse in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Quote

"I am very pleased that our Government is protecting and preserving the outstanding maritime heritage of Newfoundland and Labrador for future generations. The Long Point, Fort Amherst and Cape Ray lighthouses, which delight visitors year after year, have been and continue to be beacons and indispensable navigation aids for our coastal communities."

The Honourable Rob Moore, Regional Minister for Newfoundland and Labrador and Minister of State (Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency)

Related Products

• Backgrounder

Associated Links

• Heritage Lighthouses of Canada (home page)
• Designated Lighthouses
• Heritage Lighthouse Protection Act
• Point Amour Lighthouse Designation (December 2013)
• Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada

Image with caption: "The Long Point (Twillingate) Lighthouse, with its unique architecture, has been designated a heritage lighthouse. (CNW Group/Parks Canada)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20140326_C7078_PHOTO_EN_38331.jpg

SOURCE: Parks Canada

For further information:

Office of the Minister of the Environment
819-997-1441

Media Relations
Parks Canada
819-953-8371
1-855-862-1812
www.twitter.com/parkscanada