Grand Pre National Historic Site

ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM--Grand Pre National Historic Site

The provincial and federal governments have announced the acquisition of 8.15 hectares (20.14 acres) of land adjoining Grand Pre National Historic Site for nearly $450,000, to be shared equally.

The announcement was made today by Manning MacDonald, Minister of Economic Development and Tourism, and Sheila Copps, Minister of Canadian Heritage.

The lands were acquired from Harold Medjuck, who was able to assemble several lots adjacent to the historic site --the first time this has been possible in 250 years.

"This acquisition will help preserve and enhance the Grand Pre site for future generations," said Mr. MacDonald. "Grand Pre is one of this region's best-known tourist attractions, so this is an important step for the area's future economy, as well as for its cultural heritage."

"I'm delighted that the province was able to initiate this transaction after negotiations between Mr. Medjuck and the Acadian community were unsuccessful," said Allister Surette, Minister responsible for Acadian Affairs. "Putting the land into the public domain allows Acadians, local communities, and other interested parties to determine its future use."

Added Ms. Copps: "The story of the Acadians and their deportation in 1755 is a story of sadness and tragedy, but it is also a story of the triumphant survival of a people. This acquisition is a positive contribution to the integrity of this important site and to the legacy of this pivotal event in Canada's history."

"For Parks Canada, which is a component of the Department of Canadian Heritage, these lands are of great value to the Grand Pre site because they contain the original entrance to the gardens and important archeological remains," said Andy Mitchell, Secretary of State (Parks).

Grand Pre National Historic Site occupied about 10.9 hectares (27 acres) before the addition of these lands. It features formal gardens, various statues and monuments, a 19th-century blacksmith's shop and a stained-glass window depicting the deportation. Acadian Days festivities occur at the site annually.

With this investment, Parks Canada will also be able to eliminate

the need to relocate the Grand Pre Road next to the site's visitor reception centre, a project that would have cost $800,000.

Over the next year, Parks Canada will consult with key stakeholders to improve Grand Pre National Historic Site and to enrich the experience of the growing number of visitors to the site.

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