TORONTO, ONTARIO -- (Marketwire) -- 01/22/11 -- The Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development, joined Toronto's Vietnamese community today at the annual Tet Festival to celebrate the Lunar New Year.
Speaking on behalf of Prime Minister Stephen Harper, the Minister applauded the Vietnamese Association of Toronto and the other community groups who have organized this annual event for the past 25 years.
"This provides us all with the occasion to celebrate and reflect on the importance of family, preservation of tradition, and Vietnamese culture and heritage," said Minister Finley.
The Minister also praised Vietnamese Canadians for their great contributions to Canadian society.
In her greetings to members of the community, Minister Finley expressed the Government of Canada's support for the Vietnamese community: "We look forward to continuing to work together to help build a stronger Vietnamese community and a stronger Canada."
In closing, she wished all the members of the community a happy and healthy Year of the Cat.
This news release is available in alternative formats upon request.
Contacts:
Office of Minister Finley
Michelle Bakos
Press Secretary
819-994-2482