Government of Canada announces funding to two groups in Nova Scotia for the 400th anniversary of Acadia celebrations
GRAND PRÉ, August 15, 2003 -- Robert Thibault, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans and Member of Parliament (West Nova), on behalf of Minister of Canadian Heritage Sheila Copps and Minister of State for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) Gerry Byrne, announced today funding of $1,228,464 for two groups in Nova Scotia."In 2004, Canadians from all over the country, and especially Acadians and Francophones from Atlantic Canada, will celebrate the Francophone heritage that the first French settlers brought to North America," said Minister Thibault. "The Government of Canada is proud to partner with these groups for the 400th anniversary celebrations of Acadia."
Financial assistance is allocated to the following groups:
Ï The Société Acadie Nouvelle-Écosse 2004 will receive funding of $1,034,000 to develop, plan, promote, and hold the third Congrès mondial acadien. The event will be held from July 31 to August 15, 2004.
Ï The Société Promotion Grand-Pré will receive funding of $194,464 to develop activities with a focus on discovering, learning, and celebrating the 400th anniversary of Acadia in 2004.
Funding is provided under the Atlantic Canada Cultural and Economic Partnership, a
$10-million, three-year initiative, which is funded jointly by the Department of Canadian Heritage and the ACOA. The Partnership, in effect until March 31, 2005, will stimulate development of cultural industries and highlight the history of Atlantic Canada.
Funding for these projects was provided for in the February 2003 federal Budget.
Information:
Sonya-Kim St-Julien
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage
(819) 997-7788
Ralph Meechan
Office of the Minister of State for ACOA
(613) 941-7291
Caroline Quinn
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans
(613) 992-3474
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