Update on Government House Renovation

Repairs to Government House, the oldest vice-regal residence in Canada, are expected to be completed by December 2009, a year later than originally planned, at an estimated cost of $5.7 million.

The initial occupancy date, December 2008, was based on the Department of Transportation and Public Works taking possession of the house in spring 2006. Because of the previous lieutenant governor's extended term, renovations were delayed until the fall of 2006.

Angus MacIsaac, Minister of Transportation and Public Works, said a detailed structural investigation of Government House in the fall of 2006 showed the need for substantial interior renovations and upgrades.

"Government House has been continuously occupied since it opened in 1805, and is in significant need of repairs," said Mr. MacIsaac. "The province is committed to preserving this important piece of our history for generations of Nova Scotians."

Renovations and upgrades to the interior of Government House include replacing the boiler and heating systems, work on century-old wiring and ventilation systems, significant repairs to the basement and foundation drainage, asbestos removal, installation of an accessible washroom, and upgrades to meet fire code standards.

In 2005, work began to repair a retaining wall surrounding the building for safety reasons. That work was completed in December 2006 at a cost of $2.2 million.

Lt.-Gov. Mayann Francis will continue to live in her personal residence in Halifax until renovations at Government House are complete. She receives an allowance to offset additional costs incurred by the arrangement.