Mont-Saint-Hilaire, Quebec, April 22, 2013 -- On behalf of the Honourable Peter Kent, Canada’s Environment Minister and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, the Honourable Suzanne Fortin-Duplessis, Senator, today unveiled a Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada plaque commemorating maple product as an event of national historic significance. On the occasion of Earth Day, a ceremony was held at La Maison amérindienne, in Mont-Saint-Hilaire, Quebec.
“With the tradition of sugaring-off in the spring, maple syrup symbolizes the end of winter and is associated with Canada’s national identity and way of life at home and abroad,” said Senator Fortin-Duplessis. “This yearly ritual marks the transition from winter to spring and is a time of celebration for friends and families. The Government of Canada is pleased to commemorate the national historic importance of maple products and recognise the contributions of all the Canadians whose work in the maple industry has helped build the Canada we know today.”
Long before the arrival of European settlers, Aboriginal peoples extracted maple sap in the spring and turned it into syrup. Later, the production and trade of maple products came to play an important role in the economy of the Maple Belt, notably by providing supplementary income that helped ensure the survival of many family farms. After breaking into the American market during the 1930s, Canada became the world’s leading maple products producer and exporter.
“Maple products have a rich history in our country, enjoying both symbolic and economic value,” said Minister Kent. “Canada remains in fact the main producer and exporter worldwide. By recognizing the national historic significance of maple products, our Government pays tribute to the men and women who played a role in developing this prosperous business that is the pride of Canadians.”
The Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada was established in 1919 and is supported by Parks Canada. It advises the Minister of the Environment regarding the national significance of places, persons and events that have marked Canada’s history. On behalf of the people of Canada, Parks Canada manages a nationwide network that makes up a rich tapestry of Canada’s historical heritage and offers the public opportunities for real and inspiring discoveries.
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