Supporting Montreal's international reach Montreal, Quebec, February 17, 2005 -- The Honourable Jacques Saada, Minister of Canada Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Francophonie, today announced an extension of the agreement with the MONTREAL HIGH LIGHTS Festival. Under this agreement, Canada Economic Development is providing a $425,000 contribution for the 6th edition of the festival, to be held February 17 to 27, 2005. This financial assistance is intended to support the festival's international promotion and marketing efforts and is consistent with Canada Economic Development's strategy to make tourism a key development priority for the Montreal region. "The MONTREAL HIGH LIGHTS Festival's contribution to Montreal's economic and cultural vitality is undeniable. By making the city as much of a hot spot in winter as at the height of summer, this event confirms Montreal's reputation as the City of Festivals," stated Mr. Saada. Building on the success of its first five editions, the MONTREAL HIGH LIGHTS Festival offers Montrealers and visitors a bold program linking winter magic to the performing and culinary arts. The festival proposes a host of cultural, gastronomic, leisure and trade activities, showcasing the quality of urban living in Montreal in a festive, fun and safe manner. This 6th edition of the festival is expected to create about 100 jobs in the Greater Montreal area. Canada Economic Development's mandate is to promote the economic development of the regions of Quebec. Primarily through financial assistance programs, the Agency elicits and supports the implementation of economic development projects. The two priorities the Agency has set itself are to foster innovation and the knowledge economy in each region of Quebec, and to help communities that are having difficulty adjusting to the new economy. In this way, the Agency contributes to the attainment of the Government of Canada's objective of building the 21st Century economy. Funding for this initiative was provided for in the March 2004 federal budget. - 30 - Sources: Nathalie JutrasCommunicationsCanada Economic DevelopmentTel: (514) 283-2800 nathalie.jutras@dec-ced.gc.caDaniel DezaindePress SecretaryOffice of the Honourable Jacques SaadaCanada Economic Development Tel: (514) 496-1282
