Copps to Ensure McCrae Medals Stay In Canada
OTTAWA, October 23, 1997 -- Minister of Canadian Heritage Sheila Copps made the following statement in response to concerns expressed regarding the sale of the First World War medals of Dr. John McCrae:"The tremendous outpouring of support for Colonel McCrae and his contribution to our heritage shows that Canadians want his medals to be protected, kept in Canada, and accessible to the public. It is unfortunate that recent publicity may have artificially inflated the price of these medals."
"There are a number of methods to ensure these medals are not removed from Canada and that they can be preserved for public recognition. Under the terms and conditions of the Cultural Property Export and Import Act, there are measures to ensure cultural property remains in Canada. In turn, there are also mechanisms under the same Act which enable individuals to donate such artifacts to a Museum and receive compensation through tax relief."
"I wish to assure all Canadians the federal government will be financially supportive of the efforts being coordinated by the Canadian War Museum and McCrae House Museum in Guelph to purchase these medals."
Information:
Cate McCready
Communications Advisor
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage
(819) 997-7788
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