OTTAWA, May 23, 2007 -- On behalf of the Honourable Josée Verner, Minister of International Cooperation and Minister for La Francophonie and Official Languages, Pierre Lemieux, Member of Parliament (Glengarry--Prescott--Russell), and Royal Galipeau, Member of Parliament (Ottawa-Orleans), on behalf of Bev Oda, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Status of women, today announced up to $130,000 in support for the Festival franco-ontarien, a non-profit community organization in the Ottawa area. The organization will use the funding for its 2007 summer programming.
"This funding bears witness to the commitment of Canada's New Government to supporting Francophone culture in Ontario by providing assistance to Franco-Ontarian organizations," said Mr. Lemieux. "Our government recognizes the important contribution of the Festival to the vitality of the Franco-Ontarian community and French-speaking Canada."
"This Festival is a unique opportunity for artists to contribute to the development of Francophone communities in Canada and abroad," said Mr. Galipeau. Our Government is proud to support this important cultural event for all Francophone communities and people in Ontario."
The 32nd edition of the Festival franco-ontarien will take place from June 15 to 17 at Festival Plaza in Ottawa. This edition will feature shows by professional Francophone performers in various art forms from three Canadian provinces, France, Belgium and Burkina Faso. More than 70 performers will appear on the main stage and on many small outdoor stages.
Canada's New Government has provided funding of up to $90,000 under the Community Life component's Strategic Funds, within the Development of Official-Language Communities Program. The aim of this program of the Department of Canadian Heritage is to encourage the growth of Canada's French- and English-speaking minorities, and to allow them to fully participate in every aspect of Canadian life.
Canada's New Government has also provided funding of up to $40,000 under the Arts Presentation Canada program of the Department of Canadian Heritage. This program seeks to enable Canadians to appreciate the diversity and richness of Canada's culture through professional arts festivals and performances, and other artistic experiences.
Information:
Nicole Lascelle
Director of Communications
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
