OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - Dec. 17, 2015) - Department of Canadian Heritage

Following meetings with the National Capital Commission (NCC) and key stakeholders, the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Canadian Heritage, announced that the Government of Canada will seek NCC Board approval for the Garden of the Provinces and Territories site as the location for a new memorial. In addition, the Minister confirmed the government's intent to launch, early in 2016, a consultation process for a review of the design considerations.

Members of the public and some stakeholders have expressed concern over the lack of transparency and due diligence regarding decisions made about the location and other aspects of the National Memorial to the Victims of Communism - Canada, a Land of Refuge. This consultation process will ensure that due process is followed and the memorial resonates with all Canadians.

The Government of Canada remains committed to a memorial that would recognize Canada's international role as a place of refuge for people fleeing injustice and persecution.

Quick Facts

• The final decision on confirming the site selection rests with the NCC Board of Directors, who have the legal authority for Federal Land Use Approval, given to them by the National Capital Act.
• Online consultations will start in early 2016, followed by a roundtable with stakeholders.
• Results and a way forward for a memorial will be announced soon after the consultations.
• The Department of Canadian Heritage is facilitating the development of this project on behalf of the Government of Canada. The National Capital Commission will take responsibility for the construction of the memorial.

Quote

"As the minister responsible for this project, I believe it is very important to have input from stakeholders and the public to ensure this new monument will be a place that reflects the character, identity, history and values of Canadians. Concerns have been raised over the lack of due process for key aspects of this project, so I look forward to hearing from all Canadians to ensure the design considerations will result in a memorial that is a place of reflection, inspiration and learning for us all."

-The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Member of Parliament (Ahuntsic-Cartierville) and Minister of Canadian Heritage

"I am very pleased that the recommendation to move the monument to the Garden of the Provinces and Territories has been made. The next step is to have community leaders, top architects, historians and local residents have their say on the monument's concept through open and transparent consultations."

-The Honourable Catherine McKenna, Member of Parliament (Ottawa Centre) and Minister of Environment and Climate Change

Associated Links

Department of Canadian Heritage: Memorial to the Victims of Communism

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