Released on September 26, 2014
Today, the Government of Saskatchewan will present a Fransaskois flag to the community of Ponteix, as they celebrate their centennial year.“With the Town of Ponteix celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, it’s only fitting the area’s francophones also be celebrated and honoured with this provincial emblem flying in the community,” Francophone Affairs Legislative Secretary Wayne Elhard said. “The work of early settlers and the ongoing efforts of residents today strengthens the Fransaskois community, which enhances all of Saskatchewan.”
In 2005, the Fransaskois flag was adopted as a provincial emblem. This was to acknowledge the heritage of Saskatchewan's francophones and their significant contributions to Saskatchewan and to recognize the status of French as one of Canada's official languages.
The Ponteix area francophone community will also today be presented a commemorative plaque.
“The Fransaskois of Ponteix – Les Auvergnois – are deeply moved by the honour bestowed upon them,” Les Auvergnois de Ponteix President Lorraine Roberge said. “This event comes in the year 2014, when we celebrate the centennial of our town, a town established by Francophone pioneers from Auvergne, Quebec and other Francophone regions.”
The Fransaskois flag has been presented to Duck Lake, Ferland, St. Denis, Gravelbourg, Zenon Park, Regina, Saskatoon, Bellegarde and the Battlefords as part of a province-wide recognition initiative.
The Francophone Affairs Legislative Secretary’s duties include French-language services and engagement with the francophone community in Saskatchewan.
For more information about French-language services provided by the Government of Saskatchewan, visit www.bonjour.gov.sk.ca.
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For more information, contact:
Dan Palmer
Intergovernmental Affairs
Regina
Phone: 306-787-2155