Friday, February 15, 2008

Islanders use new technology to have their say about the past

Islanders use new technology to have their say about the past
An online blog has been created where Islanders can submit their comments about the preservation of the past

BY STAFF
As published by The Guardian - 15 Feb, 2008

Technology is providing a new way for Islanders to have their say about the preservation of the past. The comprehensive heritage study, being undertaken by The IRIS Group on behalf of the Cultural Affairs department, has created an online blog where Islanders can submit their comments and learn more about the study as it progresses.

Carolyn Bertram, minister responsible for heritage, said she was pleased to see the consultants making use of this new approach.

"We want to find out how all Islanders view heritage issues and the use of a blog will especially appeal to our younger audiences. It is exciting to be able to use the technology of today to stimulate discussion about heritage issues."

A blog is a public discussion board where individuals can post comments and engage in discussion.

At the Island Heritage Study Blog interested parties can also find updates on new study information almost immediately.

Diane Griffin, of The IRIS Group, said the blog is a place to share ideas and get feedback from other Islanders on those ideas.

"Sometimes one of the drawbacks to submitting a letter or brief is the lack of opportunity for response to questions or points raised. The blog also allows us to immediately post items related to the study that will be of interest to the blog readers. The blog is not simply convenient, it is an improvement in communication."

The heritage study was launched to gather information about Islanders' interests and concerns with regard to heritage and to make recommendations about how the province should manage heritage resources. The blog can be found at www.islandheritagestudy.wordpress.com

For more information about the study, to obtain a list of public meetings or find out more about how you can get involved, contact The IRIS Group at 675-4134, yvette@theIRISgroup.ca or www.theirisgroup.ca

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