Lunenburg Receives Restoration Funding for Local War Memorials

February 04, 2008

Lunenburg, NS - Gerald Keddy, Member of Parliament for South Shore-St. Margaret's and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, announced Saturday, on behalf of the Honourable Greg Thompson, Minister of Veterans Affairs, contributions towards the restoration and conservation of local memorials in Lunenburg, Nova Scotia. Veterans Affairs Canada will contribute to the Town of Lunenburg, through the Cenotaph/Monument Restoration Program, funding of up to $25,000 for the Lunenburg First World War Monument, and up to $9,465 for the Lunenburg Second World War Monument.

"All of Canada's cenotaphs, large or small, share the same important message of remembrance and gratitude," said Minister Thompson. "Supporting the restoration of these memorials is one way that our Government is ensuring that the actions of our men and women who served their country are remembered."

Funding for the First World War Memorial will assist in cleaning and repairing the monument and its base, levelling the existing terrain and replacing the retaining wall. A limestone wall in front of the retaining wall, new steps and a new concrete walkway will also be constructed for this cenotaph. Funding for the Second World War Memorial will assist with the construction of a new concrete walkway, new steps to the monument, and additional handrails to improve accessibility. The monument and base will also be repaired and cleaned.

"I commend the citizens of Lunenburg and their efforts in preserving the memory of their neighbours who made the ultimate sacrifice," said Mr. Keddy. "These renovations not only improve the look of the cenotaphs but they also improve accessibility for visitors."

The Cenotaph/Monument Restoration Program helps communities across Canada to preserve the memory of those who have served our country. Through partnerships with community groups and local organizations, the cenotaphs and monuments honouring Veterans, war dead and significant events, are maintained with the standard of care and dignity that they deserve.

To learn more about the project or to apply for funding, call 1-877-604-8489 or visit www.vac-acc.gc.ca.