Statement by the Honourable Shelly Glover, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, on the Occasion of Heritage Day

OTTAWA, Feb. 17, 2014 /CNW/ - More than ever this year, Canadians are invited to celebrate Heritage Day. This year's theme proposes to have fun with heritage by visiting historic places made for play in our local communities.

As Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, I encourage Canadians of all ages, but especially our youth, to experience and enjoy the rich history of Canada through its historic places for play on this Heritage Day.

As we approach the 150^th anniversary of Confederation in 2017, I strongly believe it is important to provide Canadians with opportunities to improve their knowledge of Canada and its history. On behalf of Prime Minister Stephen Harper and the Government of Canada, I encourage everyone to discover and celebrate the unique heritage that brings us together as Canadians and makes us all proud.

Established in 1973 by Heritage Canada The National Trust, Heritage Day is celebrated every year across the country on the third Monday of February. It is meant to encourage the preservation and promotion of Canada's nationally significant historic, architectural, natural and scenic heritage.

SOURCE: Canadian Heritage

(media only), please contact:

Marisa Monnin
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage
and Official Languages
819-997-7788