Businessman John Ashton Appointed to Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada

Ashton will represent Nova Scotia

OTTAWA, April 25, 2014 /CNW/ - Minister Leona Aglukkaq announced today the appointment of John Ashton as a representative for Nova Scotia on the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada (HSMBC). His mandate will be for three years.

A resident of Pictou County in Nova Scotia, John Ashton is a businessman, graphic designer and historical researcher. He is the Coordinator of the Historical Community Kiosk Project, aimed at promoting tourism and the history of rural municipalities using interpretive panels. A volunteer who is active in his community, Mr. Ashton has numerous years of experience leading historical and touristic projects.

Created in 1919, the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada advises the Minister of the Environment on the national historic significance of places, people and events that have marked Canada's history. Together with Parks Canada, the Board ensures that these subjects of national historic significance are recognized appropriately and shared with Canadians and visitors alike.

Parks Canada manages a nation-wide network of national historic sites that make up the rich tapestry of Canada's cultural heritage offering visitors an opportunity for real and inspiring discoveries.

Quick Facts

• The Board is made up of 16 members: 13 representatives from each of the provinces and territories, along with representatives from Library and Archives Canada and the Canadian Museum of History, and a representative from Parks Canada who also acts as the Board's Secretary.
• To be a member of the HSMBC, an individual must reside in the province or territory that he or she represents, and have knowledge of its history and of the historical trends that shaped the development of Canada as a whole.
• Based on recommendations from the HSMBC, to date, the Government of Canada has designated over 2,000 national historic sites, events and persons.

Quote

"Our Government is committed to protecting our historic sites to ensure they are enjoyed by Canadians and visitors from around the world for generations to come. Having John Ashton represent Nova Scotia on the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada, will further contribute to protecting our shared heritage well into the future. Having known and worked with John for years on numerous projects, I know the Board will benefit from his knowledge and his experience. He brings a passion and perspective on history that is truly impressive."

Peter MacKay, Regional Minister for Nova Scotia, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada

Associated Links

Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada
Board Composition
Board members

Image with caption: "John Ashton will represent Nova Scotia on the Historical Sites and Monuments Board of Canada. (CNW Group/Parks Canada)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20140425_C5210_PHOTO_EN_39648.jpg

SOURCE: Parks Canada

Office of the Minister of the Environment
819-997-1441

Media Relations Parks Canada
819-953-8371
www.twitter.com/parkscanada