Government of Canada Invests stimulus funds in Queens County Fair ground

August 25, 2009

CALEDONIA (NS) – August 25, 2009 – A Queens County favourite and tourism draw will soon be enhanced thanks to the Community Adjustment Fund (CAF), a major job creating initiative contained in the Government of Canada’s Economic Action Plan.

Gerald Keddy, Member of Parliament for South Shore-St. Margaret’s, on behalf of the Honourable Keith Ashfield, Minister of State (Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency), today announced an investment of $12,097 for the Queens County Fair Association.

“Today, we are building on more than 130 years of tradition in this community,” said MP Keddy.  “Through our government’s investment, the Queens County Fair Grounds will continue to promote agricultural activities in the area and provide opportunities for recreation and entertainment for years to come”

The investment will support upgrades to the Fair Grounds including drainage improvements to the new barn and riding ring; roof replacement and electrical enhancements for the main building; site levelling; and road grading.  The upgrades are intended to ensure the long-term sustainability of the exhibition grounds and facilities.

The facility is best known as the location for the annual Queens County Fair, a five-day festival which draws in up to 5,300 spectators and participants annually.

“These upgrades will allow for a larger number of community-focused events,” said Elliott Payzant, Director, Queens County Fair Association.  “This investment will help us to increase year-round tourism opportunities while conveying the rich agricultural tradition of the area.”

Over the next two years, CAF will deliver a total of $1 billion to local economies throughout Canada. The total CAF allocation for Atlantic Canada is $100.4 million and is delivered in the region by ACOA.

For information on Canada's Economic Action Plan, please visit www.actionplan.gc.ca.