Building a strong Canada starts with investing in the modern and reliable infrastructure that makes it possible to increase housing supply and create resilient communities.
On the occasion of the groundbreaking ceremony for the future St. Lawrence Shark Pavilion, officially marking the start of construction on this major project dedicated to the discovery and promotion of sharks, which are becoming increasingly common in the St. Lawrence, the federal government is announcing that it is increasing its funding for this project by $700,000, bringing the total federal contribution from $3.1 million to $3.8 million. This Exploramer Museum's project will help boost tourism and the economy of the Gaspé Peninsula, while also enriching the scientific, educational, and tourism offerings of Eastern Canada.
The Shark Pavilion is an example of the projects our government is committed to supporting as part of Budget 2025. Thanks to the new Build Communities Strong Fund - a $51-billion investment over ten years - we will strengthen local infrastructure, support regional growth, and build a stronger Canada from coast to coast.
The St. Lawrence Shark Pavilion will offer an immersive and interactive experience, allowing the public to better understand these fascinating species, their essential role in marine ecosystems, and the challenges related to their conservation.
In addition to $3.8 million in federal funding, the Shark Pavilion is also funded by the Government of Quebec, the Haute-Gaspésie RCM, the City of Sainte-Anne-des-Monts, and the Desjardins Grand Mouvement Fund, as well as the Molson Family Foundation, the Hewitt Foundation, the Wildlife Foundation, Tourisme Gaspésie, and Telus.
Exploramer will also invest just over $3 million in this project.
Construction will continue over the coming months, with a view to opening in the summer of 2027.
The Build Communities Strong Fund is a cornerstone of the Government of Canada's plan to build the infrastructure needed to build Canada strong - today and for generations to come.
