Harper Government Invests in the Festival des Glaces de Saint-Gédéon

SAINT-GÉDÉON, Quebec, February 15, 2013 - The Honourable Denis Lebel, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, Minister of the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec, and Member of Parliament (Roberval–Lac-Saint-Jean), today announced a new investment in the Festival des glaces de Saint-Gédéon, which is taking place until February 24. He made this announcement on behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages.

This investment will allow the festival’s visitors to enjoy activities such as concerts, ice sculpture workshops, a guided heritage tour of the village on snowshoes, children’s entertainment by street performers, and the exhibition of ice sculptures.

“We are pleased to support organizations that showcase the talents of local artists and artisans through activities that strengthen our identity and stimulate our economy,” said Minister Lebel. “Congratulations to the organizers and volunteers who bring this wonderful winter festival to life!”

“Our Government recognizes that arts and culture are important to our economy and our communities,” said Minister Moore. “This is why we are proud to invest in events like the Festival des glaces de Saint-Gédéon, which highlights the arts and heritage of this beautiful part of the country and strengthens the bonds between members of the community.”

“The financial contribution from the Government of Canada means that we can offer local and regional audiences diverse and original programming in February that involves internationally renowned professional artists,” said Marjolaine Girard, President of the Festival des glaces de Saint-Gédéon.

The Government of Canada has provided funding of $21,400 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 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
media@pch.gc.ca