Government of Canada Supports the 3rd Jeux de la francophonie canadienne
WINNIPEG, January 24, 2005 -- Raymond Simard, Member of Parliament (Saint Boniface), on behalf of Liza Frulla, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Minister responsible for Status of Women, today announced $900,000 in funding for the Fédération de la jeunesse canadienne-française (FJCF). The funds will support the organization of the 3rd Jeux de la francophonie canadienne, which will be held in Winnipeg from July 20 to 24, 2005."These Games are a perfect opportunity for young Francophones and francophiles from across Canada to celebrate their attachment to the French language, and to Canada's distinctive Francophone culture," said Mr. Simard. "Events like this one are essential to the growth and enrichment of Canada's francophonie."
"What makes the Jeux de la francophonie canadienne so special is that they present both athletic and artistic competitions," Minister Frulla added. "They also highlight the energy and the creativity of Francophone youth. The funding announced today is another example of our government's commitment to young people, culture and sport."
Presented every third year, the Jeux de la francophonie canadienne consist of both an athletic and a cultural component. The Games are open to Francophones and francophiles, aged 15 to 18, from every region of the country. This year,13 provincial and territorial delegations will be welcomed at the Games, and more than 1,150 young people will take part.
The FJCF is the originator of this athletic and cultural event and will help manage these Games in partnership with the City of Winnipeg and the Government of Manitoba. The first Jeux de la francophonie canadienne were held in Memramcook, New Brunswick, in August 1999, while the second edition took place in Rivière-du-Loup, Québec, in August 2002.
The Department of Canadian Heritage is providing this funding through the Development of Official-Language Communities Program.
The funding announced today was provided for in the March 2004 federal budget.
Information:
Jean-Philippe Côté
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of
Canadian Heritage and
Minister responsible for Status
of Women
(819) 997-7788
Rita Bourgeois
Special Assistant
Office of Raymond Simard,
M.P.
Work: (204) 983-3183
Cell.: (204) 793-3980
Myriam Brochu
Chief, Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
(819) 997-9314
[ Media Room ]
