OTTAWA, ONTARIO, May 15, 2007--The Honourable John Baird, Minister of the Environment and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, today announced the appointment of a prominent Canadian Mr. George Quvik Qulaut of Igloolik, Nunavut to the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada (HSMBC).
"Through his knowledge and expertise, this distinguished Canadian will make a valuable contribution to the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada and its work to commemorate people, places and events of national historic significance," said Minister Baird. "He will help the Board ensure that Canada's rich cultural heritage is remembered and appreciated by this and future generations."
Mr. Qulaut completed his post secondary education in 1985 in photography and computer sciences at Carleton University in Ottawa. Mr. Qulaut managed the Igloolik Research Centre, where he was instrumental in starting the Igloolik Oral History Project, a major, ongoing project that records and documents traditional knowledge of the Iglulingmiut. Between 1993 and 1998, he served as a commissioner with the Nunavut Implementation Commission, and from 1998 to 2000, he was Assistant Deputy Minister, Department of Culture, Language, Elders and Youth.
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 these subjects of national historic significance are marked appropriately, both within Canada and abroad.
"The commemorative plaques placed across the country by the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada help to connect Canadians with our shared past and with each other," explained Minister Baird. "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 members each. Part-time appointments are made by the Governor in Council on the advice of the Minister of the Environment.
Information:
Eric Richer
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of the Environment
819-997-1441
Michel Audy
Executive Secretary
Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada
819-997-0129
