The COVID‑19 pandemic has caused a great deal of uncertainty and anxiety throughout Atlantic Canada, and the region’s numerous culture, heritage and sport organizations are no exception.

These sectors, which allow communities to come together, promote inclusion and diversity, and showcase our artists and stories, have felt the negative effects of the crisis, much like small- and medium‑sized businesses.

During this difficult time, one of our government’s top priorities is to champion our arts and culture industries and continue supporting the creation and renovation of cultural spaces to make art, culture and heritage more accessible to all Canadians, wherever they live.

Bobby Morrissey, Member of Parliament (Egmont), announced $250,000 in funding today for the City of Summerside to renovate the Armoury, a recognized Canadian historic place.

Member of Parliament Morrissey made the announcement on behalf of the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Canadian Heritage.

This support, through the Canada Cultural Spaces Fund, will help fund the installation of a drainage system for the foundation, new heating and cooling systems, a climate control system as well as improvements to the physical access to the site including an exterior ramp, an elevator and accessible washrooms.

The funding will also be used to purchase specialized equipment, including lighting for exhibits, display cases, smart touch screens, speaker systems and sound domes.

Once work has been completed, the Armoury will become an interpretation centre with a mission of developing authentic cultural products to engage local residents and visitors, and encourage inclusion. The building will also house a museum, creative spaces and exhibits as well as space to learn about arts and culture.

Canada’s culture, heritage and sport organizations are creative and resilient. This funding will help the City of Summerside maintain its cultural activities and save jobs while providing the community with a gathering space.

Quotes

“Our government takes pride in its longstanding support for the culture and heritage sector. Now more than ever, we recognize that culture, heritage and art, in Summerside and right across the country, help build dynamic communities, enhance our national identity and create economic growth.”

—The Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Canadian Heritage

“I am delighted that our government recognizes the importance of cultural facilities throughout the country. This funding will allow the City of Summerside to provide visitors and locals with new, interactive experiences. Our region has a lot to offer. This will benefit the whole community.”

—Bobby Morrissey, Member of Parliament (Egmont)

“To have the 1911 Armoury become a centre that highlights Summerside’s heritage and cultural is a testament to the importance of culture in our community. As mayor, it gives me a genuine sense of pride to have Canadian Heritage partner with the city in telling and celebrating our stories. Projects such as this build strong communities, strong provinces, and a strong country.“

 — Basil Stewart, Mayor, City of Summerside

Quick facts

• The Canada Cultural Spaces Fund supports the improvement of physical conditions for arts, heritage, culture and creative innovation, including creative hubs. The fund supports renovation and construction projects, the acquisition of specialized equipment and feasibility studies related to cultural spaces. Since its creation in 2001, the fund has supported more than 1,000 projects, including spaces for performing arts, visual arts, media arts, museum collections, heritage displays and creative hubs.

• Budget 2017 included $300 million over 10 years for the Canada Cultural Spaces Fund to help support the development of Canadian talent and promote entrepreneurship in the arts and cultural communities. These investments help create jobs, boost economic activity, strengthen communities and celebrate Canada’s rich cultural heritage.

• Standing two stories high, the 1911 Armoury is located in the centre of Summerside’s historic business and residential district. It also occupies a prominent place in the landscape and history of the community. During the two world wars, it served as a recruitment centre for Prince County and hosted the local Red Cross headquarters, as well as numerous war fundraisers and a training ground for military exercises.

• Culture Summerside manages three museum sites: the Wyatt Historic House Museum, the Bishop’s Machine Shop Museum and the 1911 Armoury (International Fox Museum). In addition to its own collection, Culture Summerside manages the collections of the PEI Sports Hall of Fame, the Lefurgey Cultural Centre and the MacNaught History Centre and Archives.