Governor General to Visit Nova Scotia

Gov. Gen. Michaëlle Jean will make her first official visit to Nova Scotia from Feb. 12 to 14. She will be accompanied by her husband Jean-Daniel Lafond, former philosophy professor and renowned filmmaker, writer and producer of documentary films.

During the three-day visit to Halifax Regional Municipality, they will take part in African Heritage Month celebrations, meet with immigrant women, young people, artists and francophones, as well as honour six Nova Scotians for outstanding contributions to their communities.

Premier Rodney MacDonald said Gov. Gen. Jean has become a significant role model to young people, and has contributed to various organizations in many communities.

"On behalf of all Nova Scotians, I welcome Their Excellencies to the province," said Premier MacDonald. "Their strong values of diversity, community, culture and youth reflect those of Nova Scotians. We are delighted to have them visit and share their experiences with us."

Highlights of the visit will include a community celebration at the Black Cultural Centre in recognition of African Heritage Month. During the ceremonies, the Governor General will participate in the unveiling of the Black Loyalists Heritage Society coat of arms and will be presented with the Black Cultural Society's Award of Distinction for Excellence.

Their Excellencies will be officially welcomed at Province House, where the Governor General will deliver a keynote address to the House of Assembly, which will reconvene for the day. This will be the first time a Governor General has addressed the House of Assembly. The last dignitary to do so was Prime Minister John Diefenbaker in 1977.

The Governor General will meet with young people at Phoenix House and will also take part in a discussion with 1,000 local high school students hosted by the Coady International Institute. The focus of the discussion will be Canada's role in the developing world, and features 10 Canadian youth interns returning from Africa.

At Pier 21, Gov. Gen. Jean will participate in a panel discussion with immigrant women from across the province on the challenges and success stories of adapting to Canadian society.

While in Nova Scotia, Mr. Lafond will meet with local cultural leaders, artists, writers and filmmakers at the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia as part of his Art Matters initiative. Mr. Lafond will also participate in a discussion with francophone community leaders, academics and students.

Since taking office, this will be the 11th provincial visit as part of the Governor General's mandate. The Governor General has visited Manitoba, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, Ontario, British Columbia, Nunavut, Alberta, the Northwest Territories and Newfoundland and Labrador.