Mr. Speaker, it is with pleasure that I rise in the House today to acknowledge the designation by UNESCO of old town Lunenburg in my riding of South Shore as a world heritage sight.
There are only 12 such designated areas in Canada. It is a great honour to have Lunenburg as one of them. Lunenburg's unique historical architecture and its traditional settlement pattern are known to everyone who has visited the town.
The old town's historical integrity is depicted in its streets, public spaces, buildings and daily life. The Lunenburg Academy, which is still operational, celebrated its 100th birthday last summer and has been featured on a commemorative stamp.
Lunenburg's popularity as a tourism destination is constantly growing due to its role in history as home of the Bluenose and the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic as well as the continuing efforts made by residents and businesses alike.
This designation is an honour to South Shore and depicts the pride our people have in Lunenburg.