NEWS RELEASE

Battle Harbour receives tourism and infrastructure boost

Governments of Canada, Newfoundland and Labrador invest in Southern Labrador attraction

August 19, 2024 · Battle Harbour, Newfoundland and Labrador · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)

Tourism is vital to the Atlantic Canadian economy, bringing people and communities together while contributing to thousands of local jobs. The governments of Canada and Newfoundland and Labrador are investing in the Battle Harbour Historic Trust in Labrador to help grow the province’s tourism sector and enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.

Federal and provincial investments strengthen tourism, community

Today, Yvonne Jones, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Northern Affairs and to the Minister of National Defence (Northern Defence) and Member of Parliament for Labrador, announced a contribution of $104,512 through ACOA’s Innovative Communities Fund (ICF) to support the Battle Harbour Historic Trust Inc. The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA.

The Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology also announced contributions of $32,868 on behalf of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador.

These investments will help the Battle Harbour Historic Trust with safety and accessibility upgrades to the Merchant Building and Grenfell Cottage. Funding will also provide improved culinary experiences for visitors, as well as assist with marketing activities to help promote the national historic site.

Today’s announcement further demonstrates the Government of Canada’s commitment to ensuring Atlantic Canadian tourism organizations have the tools they need to grow and reach new markets.

Quotes

“Folks come to Battle Harbour from around the world to experience everything that Labrador has to offer and it brings one back in time. Investing in the Battle Harbour Historic Trust will help them meet that demand and showcase this incredible national historic treasure to visitors around the world.”

• The Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Ecomonic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA

“Complete with its charming fishing village, natural landscapes, rugged coastlines and rich history, Battle Harbour offers a one-of-a-kind experience for visitors and travellers. Today’s announcement further demonstrates the Government of Canada’s commitment to growing the province’s tourism sector while leaving a lasting impact in the Labrador region.”

- Yvonne Jones, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Northern Affairs and to the Minister of National Defence (Northern Defence) and Member of Parliament for Labrador

“Battle Harbour holds an important place in the history of the province and its preservation is important for the growth and development of this National Historic Site. By providing this funding to the Battle Harbour Historic Trust Inc., our government is supporting the enhancement to the site to harness the opportunities for tourism and economic development this unique location provides for the region.”

- The Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“Battle Harbour National Historic District tells the story of the Labrador salt cod fishery and preserves the look and feel of a traditional Newfoundland and Labrador outport. ACOA and the Provincial Government have been instrumental in the restoration of Battle Harbour. Its continued support helps ensure the stories of bygone days will be told to Canadians and people from around the world for many years to come.”

- Peter Bull, Executive Director, Battle Harbour Historic Trust Inc.

Quick facts

• Battle Harbour is one of Newfoundland & Labrador's premier tourism destinations, offering rustic accommodations, exciting excursions and world-class food.
• A non-profit organization, the mission of the Battle Harbour Historic Trust is to protect the integrity of Battle Harbour as a classic outport community with its traditional mercantile fishing premises, while creating a profound experience for guests from all around the world.
• The funding announced today is provided through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency’s (ACOA) Innovative Communities Fund (ICF), which helps communities find opportunities for growth, leading to long-term employment and a stronger local economy.
• The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s support is made possible through the Department of Industry, Energy and Technology.

Associated links

• Battle Harbour Historic Trust
• Innovative Communities Fund
• Department of Industry, Energy and Technology

Contacts

Connor Burton

Press Secretary

Office of the Minister of Rural Economic Development and of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency

[email protected]

Julie Afonso

(Acting) Director of Communications

Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency

709-743-5835

[email protected]

Tansy Mundon

Director of Communications

Department of Industry, Energy and Technology

709-729-5282, 693-1865
[email protected]

Peter Bull
Executive Director
Battle Harbour Historic Trust
709-330-6325
[email protected]

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Photo Cutline:
While in Battle Harbour on August 17, Yvonne Jones, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Northern Affairs and to the Minister of National Defence (Northern Defence) and Member of Parliament for Labrador, had the opportunity to visit members of the Battle Harbour Historic Trust Inc., on behalf of the Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA, and learn first-hand how Government of Canada investments are benefitting the region.