I am very happy to be here, surrounded by familiar faces, figures from the arts and culture community and the people of Québec. I’d like to take this opportunity to extend my best wishes to all Quebecers celebrating this wonderful Quebec national holiday. It’s a great pleasure for me to be here in the city of Québec on this day of celebration. The first Canadian prime minister to be in Québec for the Fête nationale in quite some time.

(Applause)

But I want to let you know that this afternoon, as I am every year, I will be in my riding of Papineau to celebrate the national holiday with the families in Villeray, in one of the most beautiful neighbourhood celebrations in Quebec, in my riding. But this morning, I certainly want first of all to congratulate the whole team of the Musée national des Beaux-Arts du Québec for organizing this unprecedented event to mark the inauguration of the new Pierre Lassonde Pavilion.

It is very inspiring to see so many people gathered today to celebrate local contemporary art in all its forms. Hard to imagine a better way to highlight Quebec talent than in such an architecturally stunning pavilion. I also want to congratulate Pierre Lassonde for his leadership and generosity in the context of this major project. And thanks to all those here today for taking part in this historic moment: the City, the Province.

And I also want to do something that will surprise you. But this magnificent pavilion is not seven months old and I have been Prime Minister for only seven months. I want to acknowledge the previous federal government for investing in the fine arts here in the city of Québec. And I can underscore that support for Québec and support for the fine arts goes beyond political parties. We are all in agreement that what we see here today is magnificent.

(Applause)

Indeed, this is an historic moment for the city of Québec, for Quebecers and for all Canadians. And I do mean all Canadians, because people are going to come from across the country and all over the world to see this great city and to visit this incredible museum.

The world of arts and culture has shaped our country’s history and is of great importance for all Canadians.  It is a tradition we are proud of and an integral part of our rich identity.  Every day, Canadian artists and creators make our country shine on the world stage.

Whether we’re talking about the works of David Altmejd, the films of Xavier Dolan or the music of Pierre Lapointe, Ariane Moffatt or even Yannick Nézet-Séguin, Quebec is a leader in the world of arts and culture here in the country and all over the world. Our artists deserve to have a space like the Pierre Lassonde Pavilion. A space where their work is showcased, appreciated and accessible to everyone. Most importantly, their efforts deserve to be supported and encouraged by their government. That is why I am so proud of the contribution made by the federal government, and therefore by all Canadians, to this major project. One that showcases talent and creativity while encouraging the participation of the general public.

After all, when we invest in culture and the arts, we are also investing in innovation. These are investments in an industry that reflects our unique cultural character in addition to creating employment and opportunities for Canadians. And that is what the federal government is doing by contributing to the project for the new Pierre Lassonde Pavilion. Because this isn’t just a museum that’s interested in conserving the past, but a space where visitors can imagine the future by looking to the present. And with the addition of this pavilion to the Musée national des Beaux-Arts du Québec, we are writing a new chapter of our history together.

Thank you, and I want to wish everyone a very joyous Fête nationale.

(Applause)