/R E P E A T -- Media Advisory - Parks Canada invites media to visit wreck of HMS Erebus/

OTTAWA, Aug. 8, 2018 /CNW/ - Parks Canada is pleased to announce an opportunity for media to visit the wreck of HMS Erebus during one of the largest and most important underwater archaeological undertakings in Canadian history.

The trip will include the opportunity to witness the archeological work on HMS Erebus first-hand from on-board the RV David Thompson, which is Parks Canada's newest research vessel and the main platform for the exploration of the wrecks of HMS Erebus and HMS Terror. There will be an opportunity to interview members of Parks Canada's Underwater Archeology Team and to meet the Inuit Guardians that protect and monitor the wreck sites. Various events and activities are also being planned in the community of Gjoa Haven to coincide with the media visit. Canada's Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Catherine McKenna, will be participating in the visit to the wreck of HMS Erebus.

The media itinerary will begin on August 27 and conclude on August 30. Media must arrive in Gjoa Haven on or before August 27. While Parks Canada will be providing escorted access to the wreck of HMS Erebus, media will not be permitted to enter the water. It is important to note that weather conditions negate the ability to guarantee the visit to the wreck of HMS Erebus.

Please be advised that spaces are very limited. To ensure that this story is shared with Inuit communities, preference will be given to northern media, however Parks Canada will make every effort to accommodate as many media outlets as possible.

Parks Canada looks forward to collaborating with media on this unique and unparalleled opportunity to share stories of the Franklin Expedition with Canadians and the world, in addition to stories of Inuit history and culture and their role in protecting the Franklin wrecks for future generations as well as the impacts of climate change that they are witnessing in the Arctic.  

Media interested in participating must signify their interest via email at [email protected] no later than Wednesday, August 15 at 5 PM ET. Media with a confirmed interest will be invited to a conference call on Friday, August 17, where additional details will be provided.

Please note that this advisory is subject to change without notice.

SOURCE Parks Canada