OTTAWA, ONTARIO, June 30, 2005 -- The Honourable Stéphane Dion, Minister of the Environment and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, invites you to celebrate Canada Day, on July 1, 2005, by offering free entry to the national parks, national historic sites and national marine conservation areas managed by the Agency.
"National parks, national historic sites and national marine conservation areas offer Canadians and international visitors unique opportunities to experience and enjoy Canada's rich natural heritage as well as to relive and understand our past," said Minister Dion. "They contribute to the economic well-being of communities, and to the health and knowledge of Canadians. They also play an important role in protecting and preserving Canada's natural and cultural heritage. On Canada Day, we invite Canadians and international visitors to experience these special places that have become symbols of Canada in the eyes of the world."
On behalf of Canadians and in collaboration with partners, Parks Canada protects and presents 154 national historic sites, 41 national parks and two national marine conservation areas of Canada. It is committed to ensuring that the heritage features of these priceless wonders, from unique ecosystems and species to historic buildings and artefacts, are preserved for future generations to experience and enjoy.
"We cannot risk losing our natural and cultural heritage, and we are seeking to enlist the support of Canadians to protect and present our national parks, national historic sites and national marine conservation areas, said Parks Canada CEO Alan Latourelle. "We are extending this invitation to all Canadians and to international visitors on Canada Day, to encourage them to experience our shared natural and cultural heritage, and to become active participants in its conservation."
More information on the national parks, national historic sites and national marine conservation areas managed by Parks Canada, and how to get there, is available on the Agency's Web site at www.pc.gc.ca or by calling 1-888-773-8888.
Information:
Brigitte Caron
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of the Environment
(819) 997-1441
Nicole Racette
National Director of Corporate Communications
Parks Canada
(819) 953-6782
