HALIFAX, May 18, 2004 -- The Government of Canada will collaborate with the Société Acadie Nouvelle-Écosse 2004 to organize the 3rd Congrès mondial acadien. The announcement was made today by the Honourable Robert Thibault, Member of Parliament (West Nova), 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 first French settlement in North America and of the founding of Acadia. "The Acadian and Francophone community of Nova Scotia is proud to host the 3rd Congrès mondial acadien," said Mr. Thibault. "This major international event will highlight our rich Francophone and Acadian heritage.""Acadians were among those who gave birth to Canada and have entrenched French language and culture as part of the soul of our country," said Minister Chalifour Scherrer. "During the 400th anniversary of the founding of Acadia and the beginning of French presence in North America, and on the occasion of the 3rd Congrès mondial acadien, we recognize the exceptional contribution of Acadian people to the development of our country. I wish every success for the many activities organized for this occasion!""Nova Scotia has a wonderfully rich Acadian and Francophone culture," said Minister McGuire. "Thousands of Acadians, Francophones, and Francophiles from across Canada and abroad will have an opportunity to celebrate and enjoy this cultural richness at the Congrès mondial acadien. This gathering will not only have a positive cultural influence in our part of the country, but will also have an impact on tourism and our economy. "The Société Acadie Nouvelle-Écosse 2004 will receive $250,000 to cover a portion of the costs associated with the development, planning, promotion, and hosting of the 3rd Congrès mondial acadien. The event will be held in Nova Scotia from July 31 to August 15, 2004.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 Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency. The Partnership, in effect until March 31, 2005, will stimulate economic development in the cultural sector and celebrate the history and the cultural diversity of Atlantic Canada.Funding for this project was provided for in the March 2004 federal Budget.Information:Kristan Hines Special Assistant Office of Honourable Robert Thibault (613) 995-5711 Renée David Press Secretary Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage (819) 997-7788Stephen HeckbertDirector of CommunicationsOffice of the Minister of ACOA(613) 941-7241
