Inauguration of Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium

MONTRÉAL, QUEBEC--(Marketwired - April 4, 2013) - The Honourable Senator Larry Smith, acting on behalf of the Honourable Denis Lebel, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, Minister of the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec and Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, took the opportunity during the inauguration of the Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium to reiterate the importance of this project.

"The relocation of the Planetarium and its leading-edge facilities will have a structuring effect, enhancing the cultural and educational tourism offering of the Pôle Maisonneuve sector," said Senator Smith. "This attraction will further highlight Canadian knowledge and know-how and help to foster young people's interest in sciences," he added.

Completion of the project necessitated an overall investment of $48 million. The Government of Canada, the Government of Quebec, the City of Montréal and Rio Tinto Alcan contributed to its funding.

Federal funding totalled $9 million. This non-repayable contribution has been granted under Canada Economic Development's Community Diversification program.

"The Government of Canada remains focused on four priorities, as outlined by the Prime Minister, that Canadians care most about: their families, the safety of our streets and communities, their pride in being a citizen of this country, and of course, their personal financial security," concluded Senator Smith.

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