Harper Government Invests in Foire gourmande de l'Abitibi-Témiscamingue et du Nord-Est ontarien

VILLE-MARIE, QC, June 14, 2012 /CNW/ - New investments from the Government of Canada will stimulate growth in the agri-food and tourism industries, as well as the cultural community in the Abitibi-Témiscamingue and Northeastern Ontario regions. The Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, today announced support for the Foire gourmande de l'Abitibi-Témiscamingue et du Nord-est ontarien, which is taking place from August 16 to 19, 2012.

The 2012 edition of the fair will offer the 42,000 expected visitors popular music concerts, family activities, arts and crafts, and of course, the region's gourmet talent and skill. More than 400 volunteers will support the work of about 100 local artists, artisans, and historical heritage performers.

"Our Government received a strong mandate from Canadians: to invest in major events such as the Foire gourmande de l'Abitibi-Témiscamingue et du Nord-Est ontarien," said Minister Moore. "By supporting this type of activity, we are energizing economic development, tourism, and the vitality of different regions of our country."

"The Foire gourmande de l'Abitibi-Témiscamingue et du Nord-Est ontarien recognizes the significant contribution to our event made by Canadian Heritage. Thanks to this funding, we can promote local artists and artisans at our various performing venues," said Denis Nolet and Normand Olivier, co-chairs of the event.

The Government of Canada has provided funding of $35,900 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 the history and heritage of a region.

(media only), please contact:

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

Éric Amyot
Director, Regional
Communications
Quebec Region
Canadian Heritage
514-283-4027

Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
[email protected]

(This news release is available on the Internet at www.canadianheritage.gc.ca under Newsroom.)