NDP MHA Sheilagh O’Leary (St. John’s East-Quidi Vidi) questioned the government today if they will increase the funding incentives for upkeep and restoration of heritage buildings across the province.
In recent weeks, media has highlighted concerns not only in St. John’s but also in communities such as Harbour Grace, where heritage properties have been torn down without notice to the public. As this issue continues to gain attention, historians, folklorists, and community members are once again calling on government to do more to protect and preserve these buildings, along with the history and stories they represent.
“Right now, the province invests just $150,000 annually in grants for heritage buildings, which leaves very little support for the restoration of older properties that require significant care and investment,” said O’Leary. “Communities across Newfoundland and Labrador are clearly expressing a strong desire to protect their heritage and preserve their history, particularly in smaller communities. Government needs to take this seriously and develop a clear, effective plan that makes it easier and more practical to preserve our cultural and heritage properties for future generations.”
In the House today during Question Period, O’Leary called on government to increase the financial incentives for people to upkeep and preserve their heritage properties so that these properties can breathe a new life, while still honouring the past.
“Speaker, we continue to see heritage buildings torn down not just in my district, but in communities across the province. Once these buildings are gone, they are lost forever.
Heritage NL, alongside community members, historians, and folklorists, continue fighting to preserve the stories, culture, and identity these places represent,” said O’Leary.
“I ask the Minister: will government ensure meaningful financial incentives under the Historic Resources Act so that communities can actually afford to keep up these historic buildings.”