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August 18, 2010: Lunenburg, Nouvelle-Écosse: Prime Minister Stephen Harper marked the beginning of vital restoration work on the Bluenose II - one of Canada's most recognizable symbols. He was joined at the event by Gerald Keddy, Member of Parliament for South Shore-St. Margaret's.

"The Bluenose II is an important and lasting part of Canada's proud maritime heritage," said Prime Minister Harper. "The restoration efforts now underway will ensure that this important cultural icon remains part of the Canadian landscape for years to come."

This phase of the restoration work will replace the wood hull, frames and planking of the ship with improved laminated wood frames and conventional planking materials. The work will generate short-term local construction employment and ensure long-term tourism jobs.

Financial support for this project comes from the Government of Canada's Infrastructure Stimulus Fund, which provides funding to provincial, territorial, municipal and community construction-ready infrastructure projects that can be completed by March 31, 2011. Part of Canada's Economic Action Plan to tackle the global economic recession, the Infrastructure Stimulus Fund has resulted in close to 4,000 infrastructure projects across the country.

Thanks to the Economic Action Plan, the governments of Canada and Nova Scotia have announced joint funding for more than 100 infrastructure projects across the province to stimulate the economy and create jobs.

The Prime Minister's Office - Communications