Carol Hughes on Questions Passed as Orders for Returns

With regard to surplus lighthouses being made available under the Heritage Lighthouse Protection Act: (a) concerning the land surrounding the light stations, (i) will the Treasury Board Decision #828161 allow “sponsors” to proceed with plans to use the land to make the sites economically self-supporting, (ii) will up-to-date surveys be conducted of all properties prior to transfer; (b) concerning the contaminated or toxic sites that are reported to be present on all light stations, (i) will “sponsors” be shown where they are, told what they are composed of, and given written assurance by the Ministry of the Environment that all dangerous materials have been removed; and (c) concerning the cost of bringing the buildings “up to standard” as outlined by building inspectors (Maintenance Cost Studies), (i) will monies be made available to cover this cost, (ii) what kind of financial and advisory support will be provided to assist the “sponsors” in employing the approved methods of care and development of the sites to meet heritage specifications, (iii) will the government be establishing a fund under the auspices of Heritage Canada, whereby “sponsors” of lighthouses can apply for “renovation funds” if local fund-raising efforts need topping up?