Federal Government Proud to have Contributed to Modernization of Domaine Forget
ST. IRÉNÉE, July 27, 1996 The Honourable Pierre Pettigrew, Minister for International Cooperation and Minister responsible for Francophonie, on behalf of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Canadian Heritage Sheila Copps, and Secretary of State responsible for the Federal Office of Regional Development - Quebec Martin Cauchon, today took part in ceremonies marking the official inauguration of new facilities by Domaine Forget de Charlevoix Inc.The federal contribution for this project testifies to the commitment of Canadian Heritage to promote the arts in Quebec and encourage the emergence of new talent, said Mr. Pettigrew. The federal government is proud to support the flagships of Canadian culture by providing them with the tools they need to succeed at the local, national and international levels .
The expansion and modernization project required an investment of $7.6 million, of which the federal government contributed nearly $4.5 million ($500,000 through the Department of Canadian Heritage and $3,982,000 through the Federal Office of Regional Development Quebec). It involved the renovation of existing buildings and construction of a new, 600-seat concert hall.
Funding for this program/initiative was provided for in the March 1996 federal budget and is therefore built into the existing fiscal framework. This initiative is an example of how this government is prioritizing its spending so that it can better serve Canadians by making the best use of their tax dollars.
These new facilities will allow for the harmonious development of Domaine Forget and its most important components the Academy of Music and the International Music Festival, Mr. Cauchon said. The project will help to strengthen Quebec's cultural products and increase the region's potential for attracting tourists .
The tourism trademark of the Charlevoix is its well-known special cultural network that extends from Baie St. Paul to La Malbaie, and includes Domaine Forget at St. Irénée. For this reason, it is important to consolidate and ensure the viability of these complementary points of interest and the major cultural events they support. The federal government's contribution to the modernization and expansion of the Domaine Forget facilities fits in with this overall approach.
Information:
Éric LeBel
FORD-Q
(418) 722-3282
Nicole Racette
Canadian Heritage
(514) 283-1544
Cellular: (514) 262-3502
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