The Government of Canada Supports Gathering of the Scots Festival

May 31, 2008

PERTH-ANDOVER, New Brunswick – Residents and visitors to the Perth–Andover area will be able to experience and celebrate Celtic culture and history, thanks to an investment by the Government of Canada.

Mike Allen, Member of Parliament (Tobique–Mactaquac), on behalf of the Honourable Josée Verner, Minister of Canadian Heritage, Status of Women and Official Languages and Minister for La Francophonie, today announced funding for the Gathering of the Scots Festival Organizing Committee.

Funding of $6,000 will help the Gathering of the Scots Festival Organizing Committee present the 7th Gathering of the Scots Festival, which is taking place from May 30 to June 1, 2008. The festival features various artistic and cultural activities celebrating the richness of the Scottish culture and its presence in New Brunswick. Activities over the course of this three day celebration will include traditional craft workshops, Celtic music, and dance performances.

“The Government of Canada is pleased to announce funding for the Gathering of the Scots Festival,” said Minister Verner. “We are proud to partner with communities to support activities that celebrate local history, arts, and heritage.”

“Festivals like this one bring people of all ages and backgrounds together and contribute to the quality of life in our communities,” said Mr. Allen. “I am proud that our Government supports this important initiative for our community.”

“The support we receive from the Department of Canadian Heritage is essential to our event’s success and future,” said Rod MacIntosh, Events Chairman. “With performers and participants now attending from across Canada and from the United States, the Gathering of the Scots is now recognized as one of the fastest growing cultural festivals in Atlantic Canada!”

The Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program, announced in September 2007, provides Canadians with more opportunities to take part in local activities that present arts and culture and celebrate local history and heritage. This program will benefit many community events and celebrations in Canada this year.

The Government of Canada is committed to building stronger communities and to providing all Canadians with opportunities to get involved in their communities and in celebrating Canadian arts and heritage.