Harper Government Invests in the Festival Beauceron de l’Érable

SAINT-GEORGES, Quebec, February 18, 2013 - The Honourable Maxime Bernier, Minister of State (Small Business and Tourism) and Member of Parliament (Beauce), today announced a new investment in the Festival beauceron de l’érable. He made this announcement on behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages.

“The Festival beauceron de l’érable has become a major tourist attraction that celebrates our Beauce heritage,” said Minister of State Bernier. “We are proud to be among the largest producers of maple syrup in Canada, and this event highlights products from the region while also offering a showcase for local artists.”

“Our Government is proud to partner with communities to support activities that celebrate local history, arts, and heritage,” said Minister Moore. “Festivals like this one bring together people of all ages and backgrounds, while also giving a boost to the local economy.”

“The members of the Board of Directors of the Festival beauceron de l’érable are grateful to the Government of Canada for its financial support, which is an important part of our budget,” said Simon Paquet, President of the Board of Directors and of the Festival beauceron de l’érable. “This will give residents of the Beauce region a chance to enjoy a major event that includes several activities, some free or at low cost, such as the family taffy pull.”

The Festival beauceron de l’érable was created in 1990. This year’s event runs from March 16 to 24 and will take place mainly at Place de l’érable in the municipality of Saint-Georges. Its main mandate is to highlight the ancestral, heritage, and folkloric aspects of the maple tree and its products. It does this by presenting musical performances, amateur shows, and a play, along with other activities. The Festival relies on the support of around 400 volunteers.

The Government of Canada has provided funding of $47,500 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