NEW GLASGOW, NS, July 22, 2012 /CNW/ - On behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, the Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence and Member of Parliament (Central Nova), today announced a federal investment of $200,000 in the Waterfront Development Corporation for Tall Ships Nova Scotia. The funding will help residents and visitors commemorate the important role played by Nova Scotia during the War of 1812.
The Government of Canada's funding for Tall Ships Nova Scotia will support the dedication of two wharves to the commemoration of the War of 1812, allow several ships to be transformed into period era warships, and enable student historical interpreters to participate in re-enactments for the public. From July 19 to 23, approximately 600,000 visitors are expected to attend this War of 1812 commemorative event. Festivities will also take place in Lunenburg and Georges Island.
"This conflict was a turning point in our country becoming an independent nation" said Minister Moore. "This is a great opportunity for all of us to remember those who fought for Canada on land and at sea and who laid the foundation of the country we are proud to call our own today."
"Atlantic Canada played a significant role in the outcome of the War, as a great deal of the action happened along our Atlantic coast," said Peter MacKay. "Tall Ships 2012 brings this period to life, giving Nova Scotians a unique chance to see and experience what it was like for our ancestors during that War."
"The Tall Ships event is showcasing the best of Nova Scotia food, culture, music, and history," said Colin MacLean, President and CEO, Waterfront Development. "The funding from Canadian Heritage has helped bring history to life, through a partnership with Parks Canada, to commemorate the bicentennial of the War of 1812. We have developed programming to educate our youth and citizens about the significance of this milestone in our history through live presentations, storytelling, and music."
The Government of Canada has provided funding of $200,000 to the Waterfront Development Corporation through Canadian Heritage's War of 1812 Commemoration Fund. The Fund supports community-based projects to foster greater awareness and understanding of the importance of this conflict. This is in addition to $400,000 from the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency.
Visit 1812.gc.ca to learn more about the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812.
SOURCE: Canadian Heritage
For more information (media only), please contact:
Sébastien Gariépy
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage
and Official Languages
819-997-7788
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.)
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