Ottawa, January 30, 2014 — The Honourable Jason Kenney, Minister for Multiculturalism, issued the following statement to mark the celebration of the Lunar New Year:
“Tomorrow, Canadians of Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese heritage will gather with family, friends and the community to celebrate the start of a bright and promising new year.
“Whether it’s known as Chinese New Year, Seollal to Korean Canadians or Tết to those of Vietnamese origin, the Lunar New Year is a time to reflect on the past, recognize good fortune, and look optimistically to the future.
“According to the Chinese zodiac, each year is dedicated to a specific animal, and this year we enter the Year of the Horse. The Horse symbolizes speed, strength, energy and perseverance, and those born under this sign are said to be intelligent, independent and free-spirited.
“As Minister for Multiculturalism, I offer my warmest wishes to everyone celebrating the Lunar New Year, and I hope the Year of the Horse will be a year of health, happiness and prosperity for all.”
For further information (media only), please contact:
Alexandra Fortier
Minister’s Office
819-994-2482
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
613-952-1650
CIC-Media-Relations@cic.gc.ca
