A federal government official says it could take some time before Whitney Pier can officially celebrate its new status as an event of national historic significance. Last week, the federal government officially acknowledged the designation in a statement. It declares that the Sydney neighbourhood was the Maritimes’ most multi-ethnic district in the 20th Century, with more than 15 different cultural and religious groups. Parks Canada historians and Whitney Pier historical society members will now work on the proper wording for a bronze plaque to be put up somewhere in the neighbourhood. However, the committee only meets in June and January and Ottawa says it’s unlikely Whitney Pier will be discussed at the June gathering. The unveiling of the plaque is usually marked with an official ceremony and the timing of the event will likely be linked to the availability of a federal cabinet minister.
