QUEBEC CITY, August 28, 2006 - The Honourable Beverley J. Oda, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Status of Women, and the Honourable Josée Verner, Minister of International Cooperation and Minister for La Francophonie and Official Languages, today announced the signing of a funding agreement with the Société du 400e anniversaire de Québec. Under this agreement, the group will receive financial support to organize celebrations for the 400th anniversary of Quebec City.
"I am proud of the agreement we have signed and of the Government of Canada's support for projects to mark the 400th anniversary of the first permanent French-speaking settlement in North America," said Minister Oda. "The celebrations that will take place in 2008 are an important event for all Canadians. This is also an opportunity to be reminded of Canada's history and to highlight four centuries of success."
This support from the Government of Canada will allow the Société du 400e anniversaire de Québec to organize projects such as opening ceremonies, celebrations commemorating the arrival of Champlain in Quebec City, festivities that will take place from July 3 to 6, 2008, closing ceremonies, the Moulin à images, and activities held at the Espace 400e.
"The Government of Canada recognizes the importance of the 400th anniversary of the founding of Quebec City," said Minister Verner. "This is a chance to understand the origins of the French language and culture in Canada, and the cooperation of the First Nations and Europeans on Canadian soil. In addition, the festivities highlight our rich history and give us a chance to express our pride. In 2008, Quebec City will be the focal point for the province of Quebec, Canada, and the entire world."
The Société du 400e anniversaire de Québec is an independent non-profit organization dedicated to organizing the celebrations for the 400th anniversary of Quebec City. The Société du 400e is funded by the Government of Canada, the Government of Quebec, and Quebec City.
The Department of Canadian Heritage will contribute $40 million to the Société du 400e anniversaire de Québec to organize celebrations, particularly commemorative and cultural programming. This amount is in addition to the $70 million invested by the Government of Canada to support various infrastructure projects for Quebec City's 400th anniversary.
Information:
Véronique Bruneau
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage
and Status of Women
819 997-7788
Pascale St-Pierre
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of International
Cooperation and Minister for La Francophonie and Official Languages
819 953-6238
Donald Boulanger
A/Chief, Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819 994-9101
