SAINT ANDREWS (CNB) – Federal, provincial, and municipal representatives officially dedicated the new Fundy Discovery Aquarium at a ceremony today at the Huntsman Marine Science Centre in Saint Andrews.

"New Brunswick is renowned around the world for the Bay of Fundy, and our government's investment in the Fundy Discovery Aquarium will help provide an even more exciting tourism experience while advancing our knowledge of its rich biodiversity," said Premier David Alward. "We can achieve lasting economic and social progress by working with world-class local partners like the Hunstman Marine Centre to promote our communities and our natural treasures."

The aquarium will open in the fall.

"Our government is proud to have contributed to this new facility,” said Fisheries and Oceans Minister Keith Ashfield, who is also minister for the Atlantic Gateway. “Our investment through Canada's Economic Action Plan helped create employment while providing economic development opportunities for the regions far into the future. This new facility will attract more visitors to the area all year long and offer a learning opportunity for students of all ages as well as improved research capabilities for universities and research organizations that partner with Huntsman."

The 1,858-sq.-metre (20,000-sq.-foot) facility is Canada's newest aquarium. It includes interpretation of the ecology and economy of the Bay of Fundy; a range of marine life; a two-storey tidal display; a conference and lecture centre with live video-conference capabilities; meeting rooms; a laboratory; and a gift shop.

"We are very proud to have reached this day, having torn down our old aquarium only a year ago,” said Bill Robertson, executive director of the Huntsman Marine Science Centre. “The new building is more than just a replacement for the aquarium. With all of the additional infrastructure, and by being open year round, it represents a major boost to the economy of the area, and to the scientific and educational communities, as well as to our partners. We hope the Fundy Discovery Aquarium will be a destination and source of enjoyment and learning for many years to come."

The federal government and provincial governments each invested $2.5 million in the project while the Huntsman Marine Science Centre contributed $3 million.


11-08-11