The Canadian Government Recognizes The Historical Significance Of Maple Products

April 23, 2008

PLESSISVILLE, QUÉBEC - On behalf of John Baird, Minister for the Environment, the Honourable Christian Paradis, Member of Parliament for Mégantic–l’Érable and Secretary of State for Agriculture, announced today that maple products would be designated as an event of national historical significance. A celebration was held to mark the event at the Usine Citadelle in Plessisville, Québec. Two other designations were made at Mont-Saint-Hilaire, Québec and McDonalds Corners, Ontario.

Mr. Paradis declared that nothing was more profoundly Canadian than maple syrup, and it was his great pleasure to highlight the importance of maple products here in Québec. This designation commemorates the work of Canadians who have helped make the maple syrup industry a Canadian symbol.

The designation was made by Minister Baird on the recommendation of the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada (HSMBC). Parks Canada and the HSMBC will work with communities and local stakeholders to determine the future placement of the commemorative plaque to mark the importance of maple products in Canada.

The national commemoration program offers Canadians on-site and online opportunities to better understand and appreciate the unique history and culture of Canada. The program also creates learning and tourism opportunities that encourage regional economic development.

Currently, there are 937 national historic sites, 610 national historic figures and 391 national historic events in Canada. Most of the national historic sites belong to the individuals, non-profit groups and companies that run them. Parks Canada protects and develops 157 of these special sites on behalf of all Canadians.