Funding will help the Centre tell the story of the Fraser River from Indigenous perspectives and boost attendance.
Thursday, March 10, 2022 – New Westminster, British Columbia – Pacific Economic Development Canada (PacifiCan)
COVID-19 has had a significant impact on Canada’s tourism sector as travel restrictions, both domestically and internationally, reduced visits to attractions across the country. That is why the Government of Canada created the Tourism Relief Fund (TRF), to support tourism businesses and organizations in investing in products and services to facilitate their future growth, while meeting public health requirements.
Today, the Honourable Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Tourism and Associate Minister of Finance, on behalf of the Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of International Development and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada (PacifiCan), announced TRF funding of $150,000 to the Fraser River Discovery Centre Society (FRDCS).
With this funding, the FRDCS will expand the Fraser River Discovery Centre’s offerings through the development of Indigenous events and exhibits that will tell the story of the Fraser River from Indigenous perspectives. Part of this approach will include the development of a Place of Learning about the Indigenous Heritage and Teachings of the Fraser River. It will be developed in coordination with the Musqueam Indian Band and, through them, other Fraser River First Nations.
This project will provide a valuable source of public information on the Fraser River’s Indigenous heritage, create new jobs, and drive tourism to the Centre and surrounding businesses in New Westminster.
As the Government of Canada delivers on its plan for a robust economic recovery, tourism businesses need continued support as they resume their activities safely and securely. In British Columbia, the TRF is being delivered by PacifiCan, the Government of Canada’s newest regional development agency dedicated to strengthening the province’s economy.