NLIS 2 October 4, 2002 (Tourism, Culture and Recreation) Province announces funding for French Heritage 2004 Premier Roger Grimes, Julie Bettney, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, and Jean-Guy Dionne, President of the Francophone F�d�ration of Newfoundland and Labrador, announced today that the provincial government will provide $150,000 to 2004 Society, the organizers of the French Heritage 2004 celebrations. "Newfoundland and Labrador has an exciting and long French history," said Premier Grimes. "2004 Society will highlight this heritage, celebrating the great contribution the French have made to this province�s culture, fishing industry and communities." These celebrations are not a part of the current Special Celebrations which are ending this year. The Francophone Federation of Newfoundland and Labrador is organizing the French Heritage 2004 celebrations. "2004 offers our community a unique opportunity," according to Jean-Guy Dionne, President of the Francophone F�d�ration. "It gives us a chance to take our place on the provincial stage, it will reinforce our pride in the French heritage of this province and, finally, it will give us all, Francophones and Anglophones alike, an opportunity to discover a little known part of our province�s history." Celebrations are being planned on a regional basis. Communities on the Avalon, Baie Verte, Port au Port and Northern peninsulas as well as the South Coast, West Coast and Labrador are planning celebrations to mark the 500th anniversary of French presence in Newfoundland and Labrador. It also marks 100 years since the end of French fishing rights in the province and the 400th anniversary of the founding of Acadia and the beginning of New France. French Heritage 2004 will include archaeological searches, tall ships, family reunions, theatre festivals, publications, documentaries and other initiatives specific to the communities which have a strong French presence. "Newfoundland and Labrador has a unique and exciting history and we are committed to sharing the richness of our culture and heritage for all to appreciate," said Minister Bettney. "The people of this province have diverse backgrounds made up of French, Irish, English, Scottish and Aboriginal peoples. These cultures are equally important and I encourage everyone to explore and celebrate Newfoundland and Labrador�s French heritage in 2004." Media contact:
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