Francophone Community in Prince George Benefits from Federal Support

News Release

Member of Parliament Dick Harris announces funding for Le Cercle des Canadiens Français de Prince George

May 28, 2015 – Prince George, British Columbia – Department of Canadian Heritage

Le Cercle des Canadiens Français de Prince George will receive funding of $65,000 through the Development of Official Languages Communities Program in support of its 2015–16 programming.

Dick Harris, Member of Parliament (Cariboo–Prince George), announced this support today on behalf of the Honourable Shelly Glover, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages.

This investment will enable Le Cercle to deliver its programming across various sectors, including education, arts and culture. Planned activities include managing a community centre, French-language courses and translation services. The organization will also plan a series of performances, a festival and workshops to promote and strengthen the vitality of the French language in Prince George and its surrounding communities.

Quick Facts

Le Cercle des Canadiens Français de Prince George, founded in 1960, is a non-profit organization that brings together Francophones and Francophiles in Prince George with the goal of promoting the French language, celebrating French-Canadian culture and heritage, and expanding the Francophone community.
In March 2013, the Government of Canada announced the Roadmap for Canada’s Official Languages 2013–2018, which represents a $1.1-billion investment in official languages involving 15 government departments and agencies. It is based on three pillars: education, immigration and communities.
The Development of Official-Language Communities Program is designed to foster the vitality of Canada’s French- and English-speaking minority communities and enable them to participate fully in all aspects of Canadian life.

Quotes

“Our Government is proud to support projects that ensure the development and continued success of the Francophone community in British Columbia. Today’s announcement reinforces our commitment to the linguistic duality that enriches our lives and helps make Canada unique.”

—The Honourable Shelly Glover, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages

“For more than 50 years, Le Cercle des Canadiens Français de Prince George has provided residents and visitors with access to a variety of French-language services. This support will ensure the vibrant Francophone community in Prince George can continue to flourish.”

—Dick Harris, Member of Parliament (Cariboo–Prince George)

“Thanks to the financial contribution of Canadian Heritage through Cooperation with the Community Sector, this year Le Cercle des Canadiens Français de Prince George will once again be able to offer quality services to the region’s Francophones and Francophiles. Our Francophone association has been in existence now for 55 years, and we are proud to offer a range of services to the region.”

—Paul Vezina, President, Le Cercle des Canadiens Français de Prince George