MANIWAKI, Quebec, January 9, 2009 - Thanks to an investment from the Government of Canada, Outaouais region residents and visitors will have the opportunity to attend Pakwaun, a major winter family celebration. This 36th edition of this festival will take place from January 29 to February 1, 2009.
On behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, the Honourable Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Member of Parliament (Pontiac), today announced funding for the Club Lions de Maniwaki for the organization of the Pakwaun Festival.
The Government of Canada's contribution will enable the Pakwaun Festival to offer residents of Maniwaki and surrounding areas a diversified program rich in local traditions, highlighting the talents of more than 15 artists and craftspeople and benefiting tourism in the municipality. Close to 50 volunteers will be involved in organizing the Pakwaun, the Algonquin word meaning "thaw."
"The Government of Canada is pleased to announce this financial support to the Club Lions de Maniwaki," said Minister Moore. "We are proud to partner with communities to support events that celebrate local history, arts, and heritage, while having positive effects on the local economy."
"Local festivals such as this one bring together people of all ages and backgrounds; they also make our communities more vibrant and stimulate local economies," said Minister Cannon.
The Government of Canada has provided this $12,000 in funding through the Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program of the Department of Canadian Heritage. This program, announced in September 2007, provides Canadians with more opportunities to participate in activities that showcase local arts and culture and celebrate the history and heritage of a region.
