YARMOUTH (NS) – JUNE 25, 2011 – Southwest Nova Scotia’s farmers, fishers, artisans and entrepreneurs have a new space to market their wares: an historic barn on the Yarmouth Waterfront that is being transformed with support from the Government of Canada.

“Jobs and growth remain our government’s top priority,” said Greg Kerr, Member of Parliament for West Nova, on behalf of the Honourable Bernard Valcourt, Minister of State for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency and La Francophonie. “Our investment in the Yarmouth Farmers’ Community Market supports the establishment and growth of a unique, new marketing venue for local producers located in downtown Yarmouth.”

The investment has enabled the Market to move from its former location—a parking lot—and begin operations at a venue of its own, in the heart of Yarmouth’s business district. Ongoing site enhancements include the addition of accessible entranceways; electrical, mechanical, plumbing, refrigeration, and carpentry upgrades as well as the addition of new signage, awnings and landscaping. These improvements will assist the Market in extending its season, enabling vendors to tap into the increasing demand from the community and visitors for locally-grown goods.

Following the announcement Mr. Kerr rang the Market bell to declare the new facility officially opening.

The Government of Canada contributed more than $30,000 to the project through ACOA’s Innovative Communities Fund (ICF). The Yarmouth Farmers’ Market Co-operative Limited has also committed $30,500 to the project.

“The members of the Yarmouth Farmers’ Community Market send our sincerest thanks to the Government of Canada with the support of MP Greg Kerr and to the Yarmouth Waterfront Development Corporation for their financial support to make our market space ready,” said Natalie Smith, President of the Yarmouth Farmers’ Market Co-operative Limited. “We are excited to offer our local products in a wonderful new downtown location.”