OTTAWA, May 8, 2009 - On behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, Pierre Lemieux, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Agriculture and Member of Parliament (Glengarry-Prescott-Russell), today announced funding for the 34th Festival franco-ontarien during the press conference to announce the Festival's 2009 programming.
The Festival franco-ontarien will provide Francophone arts programming that includes dance, music, and other events to the National Capital Region's residents and visitors. The Festival, which will take place from June 11 to 14, will feature Francophone artists from across the country and abroad.
"Our Government is proud to support arts and culture in Ontario," said Minister Moore. "Events like the Festival franco-ontarien promote the vitality of the Ontario Francophone community and contribute to the economic well-being of this region."
"The Francophones and Francophiles in the Ottawa region will once again have the opportunity to attend this vibrant Festival that brings people together" said Mr. Lemieux. "I applaud the organizers of this Festival, which is an important cultural event for Ontario Francophones."
"The Festival franco-ontarien is very pleased to receive funding from the Government of Canada," said Sébastien Lorquet, Chair of the Festival. "This funding not only helps us put on the Festival and present high-quality programming, but it also ensures the presence, development, and vitality of Francophone culture in our community."
The Government of Canada has provided $70,000 through the Arts Presentation Canada Program of the Department of Canadian Heritage for 2009-2010. This program gives Canadians increased access to the diversity and richness of Canada's culture through professional arts festivals, presentation of live professional performances, and other artistic experiences.
Information:
Deirdra McCracken
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages
819-997-7788
deirdra.mccracken@pch.gc.ca
Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
