LISTOWEL, ON, July 17, 2014 /CNW/ - The Honourable Julian Fantino, Minister of Veterans Affairs, joined Canadians of all ages this evening at the 158th Listowel Agricultural Fair, where he spoke at the opening ceremony. The event, which marks the 100th anniversary of the First World War as well as the 100th anniversary of the Listowel Agricultural Hall, was also attended by the Honourable Rob Nicholson, Minister of National Defence. Formerly named the Armouries, the Listowel Agricultural Hall is where the Canadian Expeditionary Force received their basic military training before heading overseas during the First World War.
While in Listowel, Minister Fantino also joined MP Gary Schellenberger (Perth–Wellington) for a meeting with representatives of Veterans' organizations and other stakeholders, in an effort to gain their perspectives on key issues facing Canada's Veterans.
Quick Facts
Quotes
"I congratulate your efforts to commemorate and honour your proud military heritage. Our government shares your dedication to remembering and recognizing the generations of men and women who have worn our nation's uniform, and those brave Canadians who continue to serve our great country."
The Honourable Julian Fantino, Minister of Veterans Affairs
"I am proud of the shared history the Department of National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces have with the people of Listowel, as we mark the 100th anniversary of the Listowel Agricultural Hall at the annual Agricultural Fair. This year's theme, '100 Years Armouries to Agriculture,' demonstrates the historical relationship between the Canadian Armed Forces and local communities in times in peace and war."
The Honourable Rob Nicholson, Minister of National Defence and Member of Parliament for Niagara Falls
"I am pleased Minister Fantino is meeting with Veterans in Perth–Wellington to better understand the issues facing our brave men and women. Hearing firsthand from Veterans will ensure our government continues to provide those who have served our country with the support they need."
Gary Schellenberger, Member of Parliament for Perth–Wellington
Associated Links
Image with caption: "Minister Julian Fantino enjoys the crowds as he leads the Listowel Agricultural Fair’s opening parade. (CNW Group/Veterans Affairs Canada)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20140718_C3525_PHOTO_EN_4371.jpg
Image with caption: "Minister Julian Fantino shares a laugh with the crowd while delivering greetings and well wishes at the opening ceremonies of the Listowel Agricultural Fair. (CNW Group/Veterans Affairs Canada)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20140718_C3525_PHOTO_EN_4372.jpg
SOURCE: Veterans Affairs Canada
Contacts: Barbara Mottram, Director of Communications, Office of the Minister of Veterans Affairs, 613-996-4649; Media Relations: Veterans Affairs Canada, 613-992-7468
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