Fort McMurray, AB November 15, 2011 – Brian Jean, Member of Parliament for Fort McMurray - Athabasca, today announced the federal government contribution of $35,800 for the 2012 WinterPLAY Festival which will take place from February 10 - March 4, 2012 at various locations throughout the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo.

“Our Government is proud to support the Fort McMurray WinterPLAY Society,” said Minister of Culture and Heritage James Moore. “By partnering with communities to support activities that celebrate our shared history and our rich cultural diversity, we are fulfilling our commitment to strengthen our communities and support arts, culture and heritage.”

“One of the ways in which communities come together is by celebrating events to which we can all relate and that touch our lives. By doing so, we become stronger and more united and, in turn, that helps strengthen our sense of identity as Northern Albertans and as Canadians,” said Mr. Jean. “The WinterPLAY festival is a great example and I’m proud to be part of a government that recognizes the importance of and supports such community events.”

The Government of Canada created the Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program in September 2007. This program provides Canadians with more opportunities to take part in local activities that present arts and culture and celebrate local history and heritage. This program will benefit many community events and celebrations throughout Canada this year.