CHARLOTTETOWN, P.E.I., Aug. 17, 2012 /CNW/ - On behalf of the Honourable Steven Blaney, Minister of Veterans Affairs, the Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of National Revenue, today announced a contribution of up to $25,000 to support the 36th annual Royal Canadian Legion National Youth Track and Field Championships, which officially open in Charlottetown tonight. The event will include a focus on the 70th anniversary of the Dieppe Raid and a salute to the women of the Canadian Forces in recognition of 70 years of service.
"By bringing together Canadian youth and Canadian heroes, this event provides a unique opportunity for learning and sharing," said Minister Blaney. "This weekend, I will lead a delegation of Canadian Veterans to Dieppe, France, where we will mark the 70th anniversary of the Dieppe Raid. It is gratifying to know that, at the same time, so many of our youth will be learning about this important event in our history from our colleagues at the Royal Canadian Legion."
This year, the Royal Canadian Legion National Youth Track and Field Championships will be held at the University of Prince Edward Island from August 17 to 19 and are expected to attract more than 900 athletes. In addition to competition, athletes will have the opportunity to participate in a number of learning events and workshops taking place from August 15 to 21.
"Remembrance is about so much more than ceremonies; it is also about learning," Minister Shea explained. "On the heels of our athletes' wonderful performance in London, I can think of no better group than our Veterans to teach competitors about the hard work, dedication and training necessary to be successful both on and off the field."
Funding for the event will be provided through Veterans Affairs Canada's Community Engagement Partnership Fund. Applications to the Community Engagement Partnership Fund are accepted throughout the year. Non-profit groups, educational institutions and other organizations delivering remembrance activities and events may be eligible for funding.
For more information on the Dieppe Raid, including details on the Government of Canada delegation visiting France this weekend, visit veterans.gc.ca. Share your thoughts on the 70th anniversary at facebook.com/CanadaRemembers.
SOURCE: Veterans Affairs Canada
Media inquiries:
Janice Summerby
Media Relations Advisor
Veterans Affairs Canada
613-992-7468
Bob Gray
Media Coordinator
Organizing Committee, 36th annual Royal
Canadian Legion National Youth Track and
Field Championships
902-394-5624
Jean-Christophe de le Rue
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Veterans Affairs
613-797-0671
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