Using the natural world to develop business in remote locations

Susan Sullivan, Newfoundland and Labrador’s minister of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development, and Patty Pottle, minister of Aboriginal Affairs, announced Feb. 23 that the provincial government is committing $115,248 towards the exploration of business opportunities focused on maximizing the economic potential of the Torngat Mountains National Park and the Torngâsok Cultural Centre in Nain.

“Today’s event marks two exciting ventures for the Nunatsiavut Government as it looks to develop and market Canada’s newest national park to the globe and develop a cultural centre in Nain,” said Sullivan. “The provincial government is pleased to partner with the Nunatsiavut Government to maximize the area’s potential by having the necessary infrastructure to target international travellers seeking a unique visitor experience. We believe that these two initiatives hold tremendous potential and have the capacity to provide new employment opportunities for Aboriginal men and women.”

Established in December 2005 with the signing of the Labrador Inuit Land Claims Agreement, the Torngat Mountains National Park is known for its natural beauty and remoteness. It is a unique place in North America. The provincial government, Nunatsiavut Government, and Parks Canada recognized the importance of the Inuit cultural experience and how this tourism product is highly marketable.

“The Nunatsiavut Government and the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador are embarking on a partnership that seeks to foster the appreciation of the Torngat Mountains National Park and the richness of Inuit culture through the Torngâsok Cultural Centre,” said Pottle. She said the funding “will explore opportunities for the greater appreciation of our natural wonders and cultural richness, and showcase them for the appreciation of visitors who come to Labrador for a natural and cultural experience like no other.”

Currently, infrastructure at the base camp is modest with limited capacity for the adventure traveller. Through this initiative, the base camp will be expanded to allow for increased tourism potential, as well as the identification of possible private enterprise opportunities. Upgrades will additionally serve as an important economic stimulus largely through using qualified Inuit businesses for a range of activities such as construction and transportation.

Of the total $115,248 investment, $15,249 is being directed towards geotechnical investigative work on establishing the Torngâsok Cultural Centre in Nain. As part of the initiative, a feasibility study and five-year business plan for the centre will be completed.

“We are extremely pleased to share in this announcement today,” said Johannes Lampe, minister of Culture, Recreation and Tourism with the Nunatsiavut Government. “This funding will ensure the base camp at kANGIDLUASUk is able to compete on an international scale by providing top quality amenities to tourists from all over the world while, at the same time, affording the opportunity for visitors to fully appreciate what our beautiful homeland has to offer. It will also help carry out a feasibility study and business plan for the Torngâsok Cultural Centre, which will help the Nunatsiavut Government showcase the unique Labrador Inuit culture and heritage.”