SAINT JOHN, May 13, 2004 -- The Government of Canada will host an international ceremony on June 26, 2004, in Bayside, New Brunswick to commemorate both the 400th anniversary of the first French settlement in North America on Saint Croix Island and the meeting of the Acadian and Aboriginal peoples.The Government's collaboration with the Célébrations 1604-2004 Saint John steering committee was announced today by the Honourable Andy Scott, Minister of State (Infrastructure) and Member of Parliament (Fredericton), 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)."Since 1604, Acadians have played a key role in shaping our country," said Minister Scott. "The first French settlement in North America opened doors to a new world and to many exciting opportunities. It was also the begining of a long standing relationship with aboriginal communities. As a result, Canada has become a strong country that is proud of its multicultural heritage, a country built on mutual respect and understanding among its citizens.""Throughout the years, the Acadian people have contributed to the survival and development of the French language and culture in North America," said Minister Chalifour Scherrer. "Today, millions of Canadians live and work in French in all regions of our country, as a result of the dedication and perseverance of our Francophone and Acadian ancestors who believed in equal rights.""The Government of Canada is committed to making our communities strong and viable," said Minister McGuire. "Initiatives that encourage tourism through cultural activities create new economic and social opportunities. I am convinced that this project will be tremendously successful and will benefit the entire community."The steering committee will receive $122,000 in funding for a series of public activities that will take place in Saint John, New Brunswick to commemorate the 400th anniversary of French presence in North America. The activities will focus on the arrival of the first French expedition and the naming of the Saint John River after Saint John the Baptist on June 24, 1604. The celebrations will feature the arrival of the Tall Ships in Saint John Harbour, and a re-enactment of the first French expedition, on June 19, 2004.Financial assistance is provided under the Atlantic Canada Cultural and Economic Partnership, a $10-million, three-year initiative that is funded jointly by the Department of Canadian Heritage and ACOA. The Partnership, in effect until March 31, 2005, will stimulate development of cultural industries and highlight the history of Atlantic Canada.Funding for this project was provided for in the March 2004 federal Budget.Information:Mary Johnson Communications Office of the Honourable Andy Scott (613) 952-1684 Mylène Dupéré Press Secretary Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage (819) 997-7788 Stephen Heckbert Director of Communications Office of the Minister of ACOA(613) 941-7241
