February 18, 2011
Ottawa - The Honourable Jean-Pierre Blackburn, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Minister of State (Agriculture), and the Honourable Keith Ashfield, Minister of National Revenue, Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency and Minister for the Atlantic Gateway, announced today up to $3,250 in federal government support for a project in Fredericton, New Brunswick, to honour Veterans and those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
"Our Government is proud to support community events like this one to ensure that Canadians never forget the sacrifices made by our Veterans," said Minister Blackburn. "The men and women who serve our country deserve to be honoured for their great contributions and achievements."
The Paardeberg Committee will host a gala evening celebrating and commemorating the military achievements of the Royal Canadian Regiment at the Battle of Paardeberg, South Africa (1899). The evening will start with a meet and greet reception, a historical presentation on the Battle of Paardeberg, and will conclude with a dinner and dance. The historical presentation will highlight the significance of the first deployment of Canadian Forces overseas. It will examine the sacrifices and the legacy forged during this particular battle and the proud tradition of the regiment that continues today.
"I commend the Paardeberg Committee for bringing people together to recognize the historical military achievements of the Royal Canadian Regiment," said Minister Ashfield. "Not only are Veterans honoured on the night of the gala, but their stories will live on for generations through events such as this."
Applications to the Community Engagement Partnership Fund are accepted throughout the year. Non-profit groups, educational institutions and other organizations delivering remembrance activities and events may be eligible for funding.
Please visit veterans.gc.ca for more information on this event and a list of the other funded projects. Also visit veterans.gc.ca or call 1-866-522-2122 to learn more about the Community Engagement Partnership Fund or to apply for funding.
- 30 -
Media Enquiries:
Janice Summerby
Media Relations Advisor
Veterans Affairs Canada
613-992-7468
Sophie Doucet
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Veterans Affairs
613-992-3465
All Other Enquiries:
information@vac-acc.gc.ca
