Statement by the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, on the Occasion of Canada Day

OTTAWA, July 1, 2012 /CNW/ - Today, Canadians of all ages and backgrounds are celebrating Canada Day in their communities, on Parliament Hill, and in places all over the world. Thousands of people are flying the Maple Leaf to express their pride in being Canadian.

This year marks the start of the five-year countdown to Canada's 150^th birthday in 2017. As we move toward this important milestone, I invite all Canadians to make the most of this day by celebrating our identity, our values, and our history among family and friends. Let us be proud of all our achievements, which attest to our country's glorious past and hold the promise of a bright future.

On behalf of Prime Minister Stephen Harper and the Government of Canada, happy Canada Day!

(media only), please contact:

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