SACKVILLE, April 7, 2004 -- The Government of Canada will collaborate with the Tantramar Heritage Trust on a project to increase awareness of the important chapter of Canadian history represented by the Acadian settlement of the Beaubassin region. The announcement was made today by Dominic LeBlanc, Member of Parliament (Beauséjour Petitcodiac), on behalf of the Honourable Hélène Chalifour Scherrer, Minister of Canadian Heritage, and the Honourable Joseph McGuire, Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA). This activity is part of the celebrations to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the founding of Acadia. "The history of Acadia is part of our national identity," said Mr. LeBlanc. "Since 1604, Acadians have contributed to the development of our country, and it is important to support groups that showcase these accomplishments.""The 400th anniversary of the founding of Acadia is a great opportunity to discover the history of Atlantic Canada," said Minister Chalifour Scherrer. "Acadians were among the first people to establish links with Aboriginal communities, and helped build a country founded on diversity and respect. I wish the Tantramar Heritage Trust much success, and I invite all Canadians to join in the celebrations this year.""The Government of Canada is committed to supporting groups which foster economic development in their communities," said Minister McGuire. "This innovative project will attract new visitors to the region and share the history of the settlement of Acadians in New Brunswick."The Tantramar Heritage Trust will receive $35,000 to write, research, produce, and market a bilingual atlas that describes the journey of Acadians from Saint Croix Island to the Beaubassin region. The publication will underline the importance of this region during the first 150 years of European life in North America, as well as generate positive tourism opportunities and enhance the region's economy.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, in effect until March 31, 2005, 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 March 2004 federal Budget.Information:Jean-Guy Lirette Executive Assistant Office of Dominic Leblanc (506) 533-5700 Mylène DupéréPress SecretaryOffice of the Minister of Canadian Heritage(819) 997-7788Stephen HeckbertDirector of CommunicationsOffice of the Minister of ACOA(613) 941-7241
