News Release Archive
EDUCATION/CULTURE--LA PICASSE-ADDITIONAL FUNDING ------------------------------------------------------------ The Department of Education and Culture and Heritage Canada will each contribute additional funding to complete the College de l'Acadie Learning Centre of the La Picasse project and to enhance educational services to the community of Petit de Grat, Richmond County. Departmental officials negotiated with Heritage Canada, on behalf of project organizers, to secure an additional $125,000 to match funding offered by the province, for a total of a quarter of a million dollars. Following the results of an audit, the department determined construction of La Picasse began without a firm commitment for the necessary funds to complete the entire project. Project organizers acknowledge they relied on revenues that were not realized. The government has requested the organizing committee take immediate steps to complete the heating system of the learning centre and prepare a comprehensive business plan to ensure the long-term viability of the project. In keeping with arrangements made with the other learning centres, the department also asked for clear title to the College de l'Acadie. "After careful consideration of the audit, we are prepared to provide additional support to College de l'Acadie," said Education and Culture Minister John MacEachern. "However, our government requires responsible use of public money." The federal and provincial government have already met their original commitment to cost share 50-50 a $650,000 contribution towards construction of the College de l'Acadie learning centre. -30- NOTE TO EDITORS: There should be an accent grave on the first E in College. Contact: Lisa Bugden 902-424-2795 trp Dec. 18, 1995