OTTAWA, ONTARIO, March 18, 2005 -- The Honourable Stéphane Dion, Minister of the Environment, today announced the appointment of a prominent Canadian - Dr. Robert Bothwell of Toronto, Ontario - to the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada (HSMBC). "Through his knowledge, dedication and expertise, this distinguished Canadian will make a valuable contribution to the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada and its work to commemorate nationally significant people, places and events," said Minister Dion. "He will help the Board to ensure that Canada's rich cultural heritage is remembered and appreciated by this and future generations." Dr. Bothwell is a full professor in the University of Toronto's faculty of history, and the director of the university's international relations program. He is a fellow of both the Royal Society of Canada and the Woodrow Wilson Center, as well as a Connaught fellow. Highly regarded for his knowledge of Canadian history, he has authored several articles for learned societies. The HSMBC advises the Minister of the Environment on the designation of places, people and events of national historic significance. With Parks Canada, it also ensures that commemorative plaques describing the historic significance of all such designated people places and events are placed at appropriate locations, both within Canada and abroad. "The commemorative plaques placed across the country by the Historic Sites and Monument Board of Canada help to connect Canadians with our shared past and with each other," explained Minister Dion. "They tell the story of our development as a nation, and the people, places and events that shaped our country." Created in 1919, the HSMBC has 17 members: the National Archivist, an officer of the Canadian Museum of Civilization, and one part-time Governor-in-Council appointee for each province and territory, with the exception of Quebec and Ontario, which have two part-time members each. Part-time appointments are made by the Governor in Council on the advice of the Minister of the Environment. - 30 - Information: André Lamarre Director of Communications Office of the Minister of the Environment (819) 997-1441 Michel Audy Executive Secretary Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada (819) 997-0129
