Stockwell Day Announces Federal Funding for Penticton's Courthouse Cenotaph

May 23, 2008

Penticton, BC – The Courthouse Cenotaph, which is dedicated to local citizens who made the ultimate sacrifice during the First and Second World Wars, will be completely restored thanks to support from the Government of Canada.

On behalf of the Honourable Greg Thompson, Minister of Veterans Affairs, The Honourable Stockwell Day, Minister of Public Safety and Member of Parliament for Okanagan—Coquihalla announced today a contribution to The Royal Canadian Legion Branch #40 (Penticton) that will be used to help restore and conserve the Courthouse Cenotaph in Veterans Memorial Park, Penticton, British Columbia.

Funding of up to $25,000, provided through Veterans Affairs Canada’s Cenotaph/Monument Restoration Program, will allow for a significant refurbishment, including cleaning, re-staining and repainting the cenotaph as well as replacing the existing sidewalk.

“Our cenotaphs represent generations of heroes who made sacrifices for our country,” said Minister Thompson. “Restoring these monuments provides Canadians with sacred places to thank those who served Canada.”

“The Courthouse Cenotaph will be temporarily removed to allow the much-needed work to be done to its surrounding area,” said Minister Day. “Once returned, the citizens of Penticton will have a clearer view of the names of the fallen soldiers, as well as a serene area to honour them.”

The Cenotaph/Monument Restoration Program helps communities across Canada to preserve the memory of those who have served our country. Through partnerships with community groups and local organizations, the cenotaphs and monuments honouring Veterans, Canada’s war dead and significant events, are maintained with the standard of care and dignity that they deserve.

To learn more about the program or to apply for funding, call 1-877-604-8489 or visit
www.vac-acc.gc.ca