Government of Canada Invests in the Stanley Fair

September 25, 2009

STANLEY, New Brunswick - On behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, Mike Allen, Member of Parliament (Tobique-Mactaquac), yesterday announced funding for the Stanley Agricultural Society # 35.

This funding will support the organization of the 159th edition of the Stanley Fair, which is taking place from September 25 to 27 in Currieburg, New Brunswick. The Fair will offer the region's visitors and residents the opportunity to enjoy a series of activities featuring agricultural and craft exhibits, as well as performances by local artists.

"Our Government is pleased to support the Stanley Agricultural Society in holding the Stanley Fair, which is an important tradition for this rural New Brunswick community," said Minister Moore. "This fair brings together people of all ages to celebrate the wealth and diversity of this beautiful agricultural community's culture and traditions."

"I have participated in and enjoyed the events of the Stanley Fair for several years and am always impressed by the friendly people and tremendous work of the volunteers from the Stanley Agricultural Society," said Mr. Allen. "This fall celebration, New Brunswick's oldest country fair, has been around for more than a century and a half, and it is wonderful to offer some financial assistance for this year's edition."

"As rural communities are being reshaped by the changing patterns of work and leisure, it is important for groups such as the Stanley Agricultural Society to help remind us of our heritage and celebrate our current identity," said Joshua Dickison, Director of the Society. "Contributions like that of the Government of Canada not only provide the necessary financial assistance, but also acknowledge the tremendous efforts by local volunteers in organizing events such as the annual Stanley Fair. This year marks the 159th year of support for local agriculture, arts, and crafts, making the Stanley Fair Canada's oldest continuously running agricultural fair."

The Government of Canada has provided funding of $3,000 through the Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program of the Department of Canadian Heritage. This program provides Canadians with more opportunities to take part in activities that present local arts and culture and celebrate local history and heritage.