ONE THOUSAND FLOWERS PRODUCTIONS

A short documentary / 15 mins / 2015

 

Funded by BravoFACTUAL and the National Film Board's FAP. With support from NSCAD and The Island Media Arts Coop.

 

Director: Jason Arsenault

Producer/Editor: Millefiore Clarkes

 

SYNOPSIS

History appears to be repeating in Newfoundland. Despite recent improvements to the provincial economy, a number of small towns and villages face deteriorating economic circumstances and challenges resulting from living far from urban centers. One of those towns is Little Bay Islands. Low employment prospects, long distance travel for healthcare and provisions, and dwindling populations are a few of the adversities facing these remote communities. In light of these pressing issues, the 72 remaining residents of Little Bay Islands are being forced to confront difficult questions about the future of their village: Should they stay or Should they go?

 

The dilemma has been exacerbated by a recent government offer that would see homeowners in the town receive up to 270 000 dollars for relocating to another region of the province. This offer depends on the outcome of an upcoming town-wide vote, an offer valid only should 90% of the residents support the idea of relocation. This process has pitted supporters from both sides of the debate against each other.

 

This government offer has stirred deeply controversial echoes from Newfoundland's past. Since the 1950s nearly 300 towns and villages have been relocated for similar reasons, leaving behind the bones of old abandoned communities strewn across the province. Memories of houses being floated behind fishing boats to new locations abandoning the ruins of once-vibrant towns remain rooted in the minds of many.

 

LITTLE BAY ISLANDS explores the issue of relocation through the reflections of the citizens of Little Bay Islands today.