WINNIPEG, April 15, 2005 -- The Government of Canada confirmed it has approved a total investment of up to $100 million to the Canadian Museum of Human Rights. The announcement was made today by President of the Treasury Board and Member of Parliament (Winnipeg South) Reg Alcock, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Minister responsible for Status of Women Liza Frulla, and Minister of Western Economic Diversification and Minister of State (Sport) Stephen Owen. Minister Alcock has been given the mandate to negotiate the terms and conditions of the federal government's investment with the Friends of the Canadian Museum for Human Rights. The investment includes the $30 million allocated to the project in 2003. "On the eve of the 20th anniversary of Section 15 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, I am proud to affirm the Government of Canada's commitment to human rights, to the celebration of our successes, and to a thoughtful exploration of our past, said Minister Alcock. "Prime Minister Paul Martin has long been a champion of human rights, and this project will add to Canada's ability to promote equality here at home and to the global community." "Canada is a proud defender of human rights, and we have a duty to make future generations aware of our achievements on that front," said Minister Frulla. "The Canadian Museum for Human Rights will provide a unique forum for impressing the importance of respect for human rights upon people from Canada and abroad." "We recognize that investing in our communities helps everyone to participate in Canada's economy," said Minister Owen. "The people of Winnipeg, Manitoba, and Canada will benefit from the increased tourism revenue, job creation, profile, and human rights awareness that this critical museum will foster." The mission of the new not-for-profit museum will be to trace the evolution of human rights, including the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, while taking historical contexts into account and highlighting Canada's experience in this area. The museum will house a resource and learning centre where people of all ages, especially young people, will be able to reflect on the importance of respecting human rights. -30- Information: Jean-Philippe Côté Director of Communications Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Minister responsible for Status of Women (819) 997-7788 Kelly Morgan Communications Director Office of the President of the Treasury Board (613) 957-2666 Renée Gillen Press Secretary Office of the Minister of Western Economic Diversification and Minister of State (Sport) (613) 954-1110 France Guimond Regional Manager, Communications Western Economic Diversification Canada (204) 983-6243
