Federal Government Presents Cheque for $2 Million for Stanley Park Restoration

January 18, 2007 (No. 7) - The Honourable John Baird, Minister of the Environment and the Honourable Gary Lunn, Minister of Natural Resources presented a cheque for $2 million to Mayor Sam Sullivan and Vancouver Park Board Chair Ian Robertson today to assist with Stanley Park's restoration following the devastation caused by the December 15th windstorm.

Chair Robertson said, "We are pleased by the swift response of the Federal Government to assist us in restoring the park and ensuring that it will be there for many, many generations to come. This significant contribution is also a tangible acknowledgement of the broad base of support for the park that we have received from individuals and corporations across the country and beyond." Mayor Sam Sullivan noted: "This funding from the Federal Government demonstrates the commitment of Minister Baird and Minister Lunn to support the City of Vancouver, and a recognition that Stanley Park is truly a national treasure for all Canadians."

So far, more than 5,000 donors have contributed over $2.7 million to the park's restoration fund and support continues to pour in. Donations from individuals and corporations have ranged from $10 to $1 million.

A preliminary restoration plan for Stanley Park was approved by the Park Board on Monday, January 15th at its regular meeting.

Cheque presentation by the Federal Government to Vancouver Park Board for the Stanley Park Restoration on January 18th, 2007 at Prospect Point. From Left to Right: Mark Warawa, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Environment and MP for Langley, the Honourable Gary Lunn, Minister of Natural Resources, the Honourable Barry Penner, BC Minister of the Environment, the Honourable John Baird, Minister of the Environment, Vancouver Park Board Chair Ian Robertson and Vancouver Mayor Sam Sullivan.

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For information contact: Carol DeFina, Communications Coordinator, at 604-257-8440.

The Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation maintains 200 parks and 40 major facilities throughout the City of Vancouver. The Park Board's mission is to provide, preserve and advocate for parks and recreation services to benefit people, communities and the environment.

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