June 1, 2004 – Rector and Vice-Chancellor Frederick Lowy and Sr. Aurore Larkin, Superior General of the Sisters of Charity of Montreal (Grey Nuns), will announce the successful conclusion of negotiations between the University and the Order to purchase the property bounded by the Faubourg Sainte-Catherine to the north, Guy St. to the east, René-Lévesque Blvd. W. to the south and Saint-Mathieu St. to the west.
The press conference will be held in Concordia’s DeSeve Cinema at 10:30 a.m. today.
Rector Fredrick Lowy commented, “Even though we have undertaken a series of ambitious construction and renovation projects in the Quartier Concordia area to house our four Faculties, we are still lacking adequate facilities for our ever-growing student population which has now grown to more than 38,000 students. We are turning towards our neighbours of many years from the Grey Nuns Order to explore our common interests and common dedication to social development.”
Sr. Aurore Larkin added, “Concordia University, with its mission of accessibility for students of all ages and from various backgrounds, cultures and beliefs, shares many values with our order.”
The purchase and sale agreement proposes a four-stage occupation process over a 15-year period:
• Phase I involves the western section of the Mother House and would begin in Feb. 2007;
• Phase II involves the centre chapel area, to be transferred by February 2011;
• Phase III involves the north Guy area, to be transferred by February 2018;
• Phase IV involves the south Guy area, to be transferred by February 2022.
“There will be a prolonged period of sharing the building with the Grey Nuns while adapting sections of the building to university needs,” Rector Lowy said. “However, uppermost in our concerns and our planning will be preserving the precious heritage of the Mother House and its rich tradition that dates back to 1870. We will be working closely with the Order and governmental authorities to assure that the next life of this majestic edifice is in keeping with its rich tradition.”
The space is planned to be used, at least in part, by the Faculty of Fine Arts. However, the possible uses of the building will be discussed further in the context of the ongoing academic planning and consultation process.
“This is a wonderful opportunity to renew a jewel of Montreal’s heritage,” Vice-Rector Services Michael Di Grappa concluded.
See pictures from the press conference presentation.