July 2008
Francine Lelièvre, Executive Director of Pointe-à-Callière awarded France's National Order of Merit
For immediate release
Montreal, July 13, 2008 - Francine Lelièvre, Executive Director of Pointe-à-Callière, the Montréal Museum of Archaeology and History, was inducted into France's National Order of Merit during a ceremony in the Salon rouge of the National Assembly, on July 12, 2008. The French government expressed its fellowship with Quebec by recognizing some fifteen individuals who have excelled in their respective fields. It was also a way for France to underscore their important contribution to relations between Quebec and France and to the rest of the French-speaking world.
This award, second in prestige only to the Légion d'honneur, recognizes distinguished achievements in the public - civil or military - or private realm, and salutes the individual's personal accomplishments or services rendered.
"It is a tremendous honour to be recognized in this way by France. I consider it a privilege to promote Quebec's history and heritage. Our relationship with our French partners has always been and continues to be a priority and an immense source of pleasure," stated Ms. Lelièvre.
Note that Ms. Lelièvre was also decorated as a Chevalier de l'Ordre national du Québec in 2002. She created the Regroupement des musées d'histoire de Montréal in 1995 and has been Executive Director of Pointe-à-Callière since the Museum opened in 1992.
The insignia was awarded by General Jean-Pierre Kelche, Grand Chancellor of the Order of the Légion d'honneur.
The Museum is subsidized by the city of Montréal.
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