Statement by the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, on Sir John A. Macdonald Day

OTTAWA, January 11, 2013 - I encourage all Canadians to take a moment to reflect upon Sir John A. Macdonald, Canada’s first Prime Minister. As one of the Fathers of Confederation, he helped shape the united, strong, and free Canada that we know today.

Born on January 11, 1815, in Scotland, Sir John A. Macdonald became Canada’s first Prime Minister, in 1867. He played an important role in Canada’s history and remains an important political figure of our country. In 1867, he was knighted by Queen Victoria for the role he played in bringing about Confederation.

Sir John A. Macdonald is the second-longest-serving Prime Minister of Canada, with almost 19 years of service. During that time, he played a significant role in many key historical events that shaped Canada. He helped unite the British North American colonies into the Dominion of Canada in 1867; he linked eastern and central Canada with British Columbia and the Pacific Ocean through the construction of the trans-continental railroad; and he created the first Canadian national park in Banff, Alberta.

Sir John A. Macdonald Day is one of the important celebrations that are bringing Canadians together as we get closer to Canada’s 150^th anniversary, in 2017. It is important for us all to remember those who laid the cornerstones for future generations to build upon.

On behalf of the Government of Canada, I encourage all Canadians to celebrate this great Canadian.

For more information (media only), please contact:

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