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Canada  

Peace Tower Flag Returned

The Government of Canada today announced the return of the Maple Leaf flag that was flown on the Peace Tower on February 15, 1965. The owner of the flag, Ms. Elisabeth Hoffmann-Lamoureux, returned the flag to the Canadian Embassy in Belgium on June 29. Ms. Lamoureux is the widow of Lucien Lamoureux, a former Speaker of the House of Commons.

The Department of Canadian Heritage highlighted the return of the Canadian Maple Leaf flag at Canada Day celebrations on Parliament Hill. An RCMP officer had the honour of presenting the flag to Prime Minister Paul Martin who, in a symbolic gesture, entrusted it to the House of Commons Curator. The ceremony was also a fitting way to mark the 40th anniversary of Canada's national flag.

"On this Canada Day, the return of the Maple Leaf flag further strengthens our pride and our sense of belonging to our country," said Minister Frulla, "This flag belongs to all Canadians, and we can all rejoice in the return of this treasure of our collective heritage to Canada."
For all Canadians, the Maple Leaf flag is the most powerful symbol of our national pride and the values that we share. This year, we celebrate the 40th anniversary of the national flag of Canada, and the return of one of its first examples allows us to celebrate this important emblem and to remember its importance.

The Minister of Canadian Heritage is responsible for preserving and protecting our national heritage, as well as for promoting Canadian symbols. In this capacity, she will ensure that the flag is carefully preserved in Canada, where it will eventually be on display for all Canadians.

For more information on the national flag of Canada and its history, please visit the Department of Canadian Heritage Web site at www.pch.gc.ca/special/flag-drapeau.


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