BANFF, ALBERTA, JANUARY 21, 2010--On behalf of the Honourable Jim Prentice, Canada's Environment Minister, Minister responsible for Parks Canada, and Minister responsible for Southern Alberta, Mr. Blake Richards, Member of Parliament for Wild Rose, today welcomed the Olympic torch to the Cave and Basin National Historic Site in Banff National Park.
"Banff National Park is proud to welcome the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Torch Relay to the Cave and Basin National Historic site - the birthplace of Canada's grand system of national parks and national historic sites," said Mr. Richards. "With the torch comes a wonderful opportunity for Canadians to celebrate and learn about Canada's history and national treasures."
"Like the spirit of the Games, our national parks and national historic sites represent the very best that Canada has to offer," said Minister Prentice. "The Cave and Basin National Historic site contributes to Canada's exceptional global reputation. And the best is yet to come. Not only does this year mark the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Games, it also marks the 125th anniversary of Banff National Park."
The Vancouver 2010 Olympic Torch Relay began its 106-day Canadian journey on October 30, 2009 and will travel more than 45,000 km across the country.
In 2010, Canada not only celebrates the Vancouver Olympics, but also 125 years of natural heritage conservation in Canada. The journey began in 1885, with the discovery of Cave and Basin - now both a national historic site and part of a national park. And in 2011, Parks Canada will proudly celebrate its 100th anniversary as the first formal national park service organization in the world.
Parks Canada works to ensure Canada's historic and natural heritage is presented and protected for the enjoyment, education and appreciation of all Canadians, today and in the future. Through a network of 42 national parks, 167 national historic sites and three national marine conservation areas, Parks Canada sets the stage and invites Canadians and people around the world to engage in personal moments of inspiring discovery of our treasured natural and historic places.
Information:
Frédéric Baril
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of the Environment
(819) 997-1441
Michelle Macullo
Communications Officer
Banff Field Unit
Parks Canada
(403) 762-1526
