ANTIGONISH, Nova Scotia, March 17, 2010 - On behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, the Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence and Member of Parliament (Central Nova), today announced funding for the 147th Antigonish Highland Games.
The Antigonish Highland Games, the oldest continuous highland games outside of Scotland, will welcome visitors and participants from around the globe to Antigonish County from July 4 to 11, 2010. The event offers a varied program that includes the very best in highland dancing, piping and drumming, concerts, Gaelic storytelling, ceilidhs, and a street fair.
"Our Government is proud to support events like the Antigonish Highland Games, which contribute to the region's cultural and economic vitality," said Minister Moore. "Friends and family of all ages will have the opportunity to celebrate Scottish heritage and traditions, an integral part of the history of this Nova Scotia community."
"I am pleased that our Government is continuing to support the Antigonish Highland Games," said Minister MacKay. "Not only does this event promote healthy competition, it keeps Nova Scotia's rich Scottish history alive. These Games also would not have been possible without the tireless help of countless volunteers."
"We are delighted that the 147th Antigonish Highland Games received support from the Government of Canada," said Danny Gillis, Chief of the Clans for the Antigonish Highland Society. "This funding allows us to better showcase local performers at the concerts and ceilidhs during our week-long festival and to offer an exciting new production within our Saturday night line-up."
The Government of Canada has provided funding of $13,700 through the Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program of the Department of Canadian Heritage. This program provides Canadians with more opportunities to take part in activities that present local arts and culture and celebrate local history and heritage.
For more information (media only), please contact:
Matthew Deacon
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and
Official Languages
819-997-7788
matthew.deacon@pch.gc.ca
Claudine Daigle
Director
Regional Communications
Atlantic Region
Canadian Heritage
506-851-3980
Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
media@pch.gc.ca
