Investing in local organizations and businesses is driving economic growth in official language minority communities
Bilingualism is at the heart of Canadian identity and a great source of pride from coast to coast to coast. Official language minority communities (OLMCs) contribute significantly to the economic vitality of Canada. Acadian and francophone businesses, entrepreneurs and local organizations help create jobs, strengthen local economies and generate new opportunities.
That is why, on the International Day of La Francophonie, the Government of Canada is recognizing these contributions and reaffirming its commitment to supporting the continued economic development of the Acadian and Francophone community in Atlantic Canada.
Today, David Myles, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages and to the Secretary of State (Nature) and Member of Parliament for Fredericton-Oromocto, announced a federal investment of over $2.1 million to support six projects in New Brunswick. The funding will help the following organizations strengthen their capacity, improve productivity, expand economic opportunities and contribute to the continued growth of their communities:
- CBDC Chaleur
- Le Pays de la Sagouine
- Restigouche Regional Service Commission
- Office du tourisme Edmundston Madawaska
- CCNB-INNOV
- Festival Acadien de Caraquet
For a full list of projects, please see the backgrounder.
Canada's linguistic duality is a defining part of our national identity. By supporting projects that help businesses and organizations grow and thrive, the Government of Canada is helping strengthen the vitality and long-term economic development of official language minority communities.
The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency.
