Québec, Quebec, May 23, 2008 – Taking part in today's official inauguration ceremony of Bassin Brown in Québec, the Honourable Jean-Pierre Blackburn, Minister of Labour and Minister of Canada Economic Development, said he is proud of the Government of Canada's $7.1 million contribution to the redevelopment of this historical site, a strategic part of Québec's port activities.
Minister Blackburn underscored the exceptional job done by the Québec port authority in taking the lead role on this project. "This Bassin Brown site will allow residents and visitors alike to enjoy exceptional access to the St. Lawrence River for the practice of numerous sporting and recreational activities. This new multi-use public area will not only serve to highlight the site's rich past, it also promises to become a top-notch tourist attraction now and for years to come," he stated.
"The Government of Canada is a proud partner of the activities marking Québec's 400th birthday and invites all Canadians to join in the celebrations," added the Honourable Josée Verner, Minister of Canadian Heritage, Status of Women and Official Languages. "Few cities in North America can boast such a long and vibrant history."
Minister Blackburn also took the opportunity to mention that the Government of Canada has dedicated $110 million in funding to Québec's 400th anniversary celebrations, including $46 million from Canada Economic Development for the development of the three river access sites, $40 million from Canadian Heritage to the Société du 400e de Québec for cultural and commemorative programming, and $24 million from Parks Canada for the development of Espace 400e.
The development of the Bassin Brown, Baie de Beauport and Pointe-à-Carcy sites together constitutes the Government of Canada's legacy to Québec in commemoration of the city's 400th anniversary.
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Sources:
Guylaine Beaudoin
Communications
Canada Economic Development
Tel.: 418-648-4679
Cell.: 418-580-8215
E-mail: guylaine.beaudoin@dec-ced.gc.ca
Sylvain Frenette
Office of the Honourable Jean-Pierre Blackburn
Canada Economic Development
Tel.: 514-496-1282
E-mail: sylvain.frenette@dec-ced.gc.ca
Dominic Gosselin
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Status of Women and Official Languages
Tel.: 819-997-7788
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