NOELVILLE - The development of minority-language education in Canada depends on communities being able to access the appropriate facilities. This is why funding infrastructure for the economic, cultural and community development of Francophone minority schools is essential to their vitality.
Today, Marc G. Serré, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Official Languages and Member of Parliament (Nickel Belt), announced joint funding of more than $1.6 million for an important project for the Franco‑Ontarian community and École de la Rivière‑des-Français. He made this announcement on behalf of the Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Official Languages and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency.
The project aims to create the French River Youth, Economic and Community Development Centre. In concrete terms, the investment will provide the Francophone community of Noelville with:
The Government of Canada is providing $829,000 over two years for this project, while the Government of Ontario is investing $856,500 over three years.
The project is funded under the Canada–Ontario Agreement for Minority-Language Education and Second-Language Instruction for the period from 2019–20 to 2022–23.
“Thanks to the determination of our government and the energy and leadership of institutions such as École de la Rivière-des-Français, we are able to find constructive solutions and create a fulfilling living environment for minority communities.”
—The Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Official Languages and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
“Thanks to the funding announced today, the community will now enjoy a community centre that brings together all the services it needs. I am proud to announce this important investment for the redevelopment of certain spaces at École de la Rivière-des-Français.”
—Marc G. Serré, Member of Parliament for Nickel Belt and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Official Languages
“I am proud to know that Noëlville community will benefit from this investment that will deliver a centre, focused on youth, community, and economic development. The new community centre will provide Francophone students access to a modern space where they can learn and celebrate the Francophone culture for generations to come.”
— Stephen Lecce, Minister of Education for Ontario
“We are thrilled and appreciative that the government will be supporting this worthy project. This program will foster innovation and entrepreneurship among our youth, and we hope this will go a long way in addressing the problem of rural exodus. I look forward to working collaboratively with all our community partners to ensure the success of the program.”
—Gisèle Pageau, Mayor, French River
“We are delighted to receive this funding, which will make it possible to revitalize our facilities, improve accessibility and create welcoming spaces while supporting the region’s social and economic development. Over the years, École secondaire de la Rivière-des-Français has become not only a renowned educational institution, but also an essential gathering place within this community. This investment will allow us to come together and collaborate better with our partners to build a healthy, strong and prosperous community.”
—Anne-Marie Gélineault, Chair, Conseil scolaire du Grand Nord
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