Montréal, Quebec, November 20, 2010 -- On behalf of Canada’s Environment Minister, John Baird, the honourable Gary Lunn, Minister of State (Sport), today unveiled a Historic Sites and monuments Board of Canada plaque commemorating the national historic importance of the Montréal Canadiens.
“I am proud to participate in the commemoration of the Montreal Canadiens, who for a century have been an important part of Quebec's, and indeed all of Canada's, culture,” said Minister Lunn. “Their exceptional achievements have raised them to iconic status for many Canadians.”
Founded in 1909, the club has boasted many legendary hockey players and coaches, and has won more professional championships than any other team, becoming the most successful franchise in National Hockey League history. With 16 Stanley Cup wins between 1952 and 1979, the club earned a reputation for innovation and organizational excellence under the leadership of Frank Selke and Sam Pollock. Through their triumphs and tribulations, the Habs have captured the imagination of hockey fans everywhere and have become deeply embedded in Canada’s cultural fabric.
“Since 1909, the Montréal Canadiens have won the Stanley Cup 24 times, holding the record in the National Hockey League. Designating the Canadiens a national historic event of Canada highlights their significance and underlines their importance in Canadian history, which will be passed on to future generations,” said Minister Lunn.
Created in 1919, the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada advises the Minister of the Environment regarding the national historic significance of places, people and events that have marked Canada’s history. Parks Canada manages a nation-wide network of national historic sites that make up the rich tapestry of Canada’s cultural heritage and which offers visitors the opportunity for real and inspiring discoveries.
For additional information, please see the accompanying backgrounder at www.parkscanada.gc.ca under Media Room.
Information:
Pascale Boulay
Press Secretary
Minister’s Office, Environment Canada
819-997-1441
Marlene Gauthier
Manager, External Relations
Parks Canada
514-496-1261
www.twitter.com/parkscanada
