July 23, 2013
OTTAWA—His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada, will present the insignia of Member of the Order of Canada to René Angélil and the insignia of Companion of the Order of Canada to Céline Dion, during a ceremony at the Residence of the Governor General at the Citadelle of Québec, on Friday, July 26, 2013, at 5 p.m.
Media interested in covering this event are asked to contact the Rideau Hall Press Office to confirm their attendance and to receive additional logistical details. Confirmed media must arrive at the Citadelle gate no later than 4:30 p.m., on the day of the event.
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Mr. Angélil was appointed Member of the Order of Canada on November 19, 2012. His citation is as follows:
René Angélil, C.M., O.Q.
Laval, Quebec
Member of the Order of Canada
One of our leading producers and artist managers, René Angélil is also an example of generosity. With determination and extraordinary flair, he propelled the careers of Québécois singers, whose successes now reach well beyond our borders. His work often takes him to the four corners of the earth, where he collaborates with Canadian stage professionals, bringing our arts industry to the world stage. He also supports several organizations through his volunteer and philanthropic activities, including the first ORL (otorhinolaryngology) oncology research chair in Quebec, which he helped to create. He is also an honorary lifetime patron of the CHU Sainte-Justine.
Mrs. Dion was appointed Companion of the Order of Canada on October 23, 2008. This is a promotion within the Order, as she was invested Officer in May 1998. Her citation is as follows:
Céline Dion, C.C., O.Q.
Laval, Quebec
Companion of the Order of Canada
Céline Dion is not only an extraordinary ambassador for Canada, she also represents the values we hold dear. Her unique voice, infectious energy and great sensitivity contribute to her remarkable stage presence, which has won her fans from around the world. Moreover, her talent has garnered her countless national and international awards and honours. An incomparable artist, she is equally known for her compassion, generosity and commitment to a number of social and humanitarian causes. She is notably the national celebrity patron for Cystic Fibrosis Canada and honorary patron of the CHU Sainte-Justine. In addition, through her foundation, she also helps children in need and their families here in Canada and abroad.
A backgrounder on the Order of Canada is attached. For more information about the Canadian Honours System, please visit our website at www.gg.ca/honours.
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Media information:
Annabelle Cloutier
Rideau Hall Press Office
613-993-8158
613-301-2764 (cell.)
annabelle.cloutier@gg.ca
Marie-Pierre Bélanger
Rideau Hall Press Office
613-998-9166
613-852-3248 (cell.)
marie-pierre.belanger@gg.ca
