VANCOUVER, February 11, 2010 - The Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, took part in the official opening of the Place de la Francophonie 2010 early this evening. He then attended the opening performance of Salut Vancouver!, featuring Francophone artists from British Columbia.
"Our Government has worked to ensure that the French language and culture enjoy a tangible presence at the Vancouver 2010 Games," said Minister Moore. "We are proud of this partnership with the Place de la Francophonie 2010, which provides a wonderful showcase highlighting our talented Francophone artists to visitors from Canada and the world."
The Place de la Francophonie is a major project designed to ensure a high-profile presence for Canadian Francophonie during the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games. It will offer a host of free activities centred in one location and an impressive program of events.
"Our Government recognizes the unique potential of Canada's official-language minority communities," said the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State (Western Economic Diversification). "The Place de la Francophonie will provide significant economic benefits to Western Canada's Francophone communities and their businesses."
The Government of Canada has provided total funding of $2.052 million to the Place de la Francophonie 2010 ($1.552 million through the Department of Canadian Heritage and $500,000 through Western Economic Diversification Canada).
The Government of Canada has also contributed $20 million to LiveCity sites in Vancouver, Yaletown, and Whistler. In addition, the Government has contributed $2.9 million to the Aboriginal Pavilion through Indian and Northern Affairs Canada, $2.5 million to the Atlantic Pavilion through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, and $250,000 to the Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba pavilions through Western Economic Diversification Canada.
Western Economic Diversification Canada also provided the Tourism Alliance of Western Canada with $4.3 million for eco development initiatives, including pavilion development and marketing.
For more information (media only), please contact:
Deirdra McCracken
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages
deirdra.mccracken@pch.gc.ca
Government of Canada
2010 Winter Games Media Enquiry Centre
613-998-2010
1-877-760-2010
media2010@canada.gc.ca
www.canada2010.gc.ca/media
