MONTRÉAL, Quebec, June 4, 2007--On behalf of the Honourable John Baird, Minister of the Environment and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, the Honourable Michael M. Fortier, Minister of Public Works and Government Services Canada and Minister responsible for Greater Montréal, is proud to announce Parks Canada's participation as a major partner in the Main Madness on Saint-Laurent Boulevard, in Montréal, from
June 14 to17, 2007.
"Saint-Laurent Boulevard holds a special place in the emergence and development of cultural communities in Canada," Minister Fortier emphasized. "The heart of the city runs along this important street, home to such neighbourhoods as Chinatown, the Jewish and Portuguese quarters, and Little Italy. As a Montrealer, I am happy that Parks Canada is taking advantage of this event to increase understanding and appreciation of Saint-Laurent Boulevard's role in the history of Canada."
The Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada recognized the national historic significance of the Saint-Laurent Boulevard Historic District in 1996. Commonly known as "The Main," Saint-Laurent Boulevard has welcomed waves of immigrants who have come from all around to settle in Montréal. This has made it one of the best-known streets in the country. This urban thoroughfare displays the commercial, cultural and social influences of the various ethnic neighbourhoods it passes through. The Saint-Laurent Boulevard Historic District is unique in Canada for the variety of ethnic communities that have been founded and become established here.
The Parks Canada stand will be located on the corner of Saint-Laurent Boulevard and Rachel Street, in the Parc des Amériques; it will provide an opportunity to present the Parks Canada network to passers-by.
This network of national parks and historic sites offers visitors high-quality services and outstanding heritage experiences.
Information:
Michel Filteau
Manager, Communications, Customer Service and Heritage Presentation
Western Quebec Field Unit
450-447-4801
