Harper Government Invests in Kincardine Scottish Festival and Highland Games

KINCARDINE, ON, June 22, 2012 /CNW/ - An investment from the Government of Canada in Kincardine's arts and heritage will showcase Canadian artists, promote tourism, and stimulate the local economy. Support for the Kincardine Scottish Festival and Highland Games was announced today by Ben Lobb, Member of Parliament (Huron-Bruce), on behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages.

Funding will support the 13^th annual Kincardine Scottish Festival and Highland Games, which are being held from July 6 to 8. The Festival promotes the Scottish heritage of the region and draws artists and visitors from the local community. Activities include musical and heritage presentations, as well as activities for children. The festival will feature the work of more than 300 local artists and historical heritage performers.

"Our Government received a strong mandate from Canadians to invest in organizations that showcase and promote our heritage," said Minister Moore. "By supporting the Kincardine Scottish Festival and Highland Games, our Government is delivering on its commitment to strengthen our economy, create jobs, and support our arts, culture, and heritage."

"The Kincardine Scottish Festival provides a terrific opportunity for local artists to showcase and promote their talents to visitors and residents of the area," said Mr. Lobb. "Thanks to the Government of Canada's investment, the festival will strengthen the local economy and enrich the cultural vitality of our community."

"We are extremely grateful to have the support of the Government of Canada", said Tony Doherty, Chairman, Kincardine Scottish Festival and Highland Games. "Without it, we would not be able to showcase the terrific Canadian talent that will be entertaining the locals and visitors at the three concerts throughout this year's edition of the festival."

The Government of Canada has provided funding of $11,000 through the Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program of the Department of Canadian Heritage. This program provides Canadians with more opportunities to take part in activities that present local arts and culture and celebrate local history and heritage.

For further information:

For more information (media only), please contact:

Sébastien Gariépy
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages
819-997-7788

Jillian Lum
Manager, Communications
Ontario Region
Canadian Heritage
416-973-2050
[email protected]

Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
[email protected]

(This news release is available on the Internet at www.canadianheritage.gc.ca under Newsroom.)