MONTRÉAL, April 15, 2004 -- The Honourable Lucienne Robillard, Minister of Industry and Minister Responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Region of Quebec and Member of Parliament (Westmount Ville-Marie), on behalf of the Honourable Hélène Chalifour Scherrer, Minister of Canadian Heritage, and the Honourable Joe McGuire, Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) announced today their collaboration on a project with the Montréal Museum of Archeology and History at Pointe-à-Callière. The museum will present an exhibit focussing on the 400th anniversary of French settlement in America, to be held in conjunction with the 400th anniversary celebrations of the founding of Acadia."French language and culture are at the heart of our country's identity," said Minister Robillard. "I am proud that the Government of Canada supports the efforts of the Montréal Museum of Archeology and History to showcase the important contributions of early French settlers to this region and this country." "For the last 400 years, Francophones and Acadians have contributed to the cultural, economic, and social development of Canada," said Minister Chalifour Scherrer. "Today, the Acadian community's influence is felt throughout the country and around the world. These proud and dynamic people play a key leadership role in the Canadian and international Francophonie community.""Canada's prosperity is closely linked to the vitality of its diverse communities," said Minister McGuire. "Today's funding announcement will allow Quebeckers to appreciate and learn about the artistic, cultural, and socio-economic accomplishments of Acadia."The Museum, which is partnering with the Acadian community for the first time, will receive funding of $70,000 to design an exhibit showcasing French settlement in America. Through its cultural and educational programs, the Museum will seek to build closer bonds among the Acadian, French, and Quebec communities by raising awareness of their mutual history and shared experiences in Canada.Funding is provided under the Atlantic Canada Cultural and Economic Partnership, a $10-million, three-year initiative funded jointly by the Department of Canadian Heritage and the ACOA. The Partnership will stimulate economic development in the cultural sector and serve to celebrate the history and the cultural diversity of Atlantic Canada.Funding for this project was provided for in the February 2003 federal Budget.Information:Nathalie Dallaire Special Assistant Bureau de l'honorable Lucienne Robillard (514) 283-2013 Mylène Dupéré Press Secretary Office of the Ministerof Canadian Heritage(819) 997-7788 Stephen HeckbertDirector of CommunicationsOffice of the Minister of ACOA(613) 941-7241
