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Statement by the Prime Minister on Vimy Ridge Day

April 9, 2018
Ottawa, Ontario

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on Vimy Ridge Day:

“On this day, 101 years ago, the four divisions of the Canadian Corps fought for the first time together. They came from all corners of Canada – Francophones, Anglophones, new Canadians, and Indigenous Peoples. In the early hours of April 9, they united as one, achieved what no Allied army had done – and defined a country.

“Years of war had battered and transformed Vimy Ridge – once a gentle rise in the French countryside – into a formidable maze of enemy bunkers, trenches, and gun batteries. For three days, Canadian soldiers battled uphill, braving a sleet storm, constant shelling, and withering machine gun fire. They did not stop until they had victory.

“The capture of Vimy Ridge was one of the Great War’s most decisive victories, but success came at a steep cost. Nearly 3,600 Canadians lost their lives and over 7,000 more were wounded.

“Over the course of those three days, the Canadians proved themselves as an elite force. They also helped pioneer new fighting techniques that would contribute to the final Allied victory a year and a half later.

“On this day, we honour the great courage and sacrifice of those who fought at Vimy Ridge, and pay tribute to every Canadian who has answered the call to serve. Our men and women in uniform have given so much. They have our unwavering respect and gratitude.

“Lest we forget.”

Reminder - Itinerary for Monday, April 9, 2018

April 8, 2018
Ottawa, Ontario

Itinerary for the Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, for Monday, April 9, 2018:

Montréal, Quebec

2 p.m. The Prime Minister will make an announcement with the Premier of Quebec, Philippe Couillard. A joint media availability will follow.

Bibliothèque de St-Léonard
8420 boulevard Lacordaire

Notes for media:

• Media should arrive no later than 1:15 p.m.
• Open coverage

Ottawa, Ontario

5 p.m. The Prime Minister will meet with the Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, Dwight Ball. 

Centre Block, Office of the Prime Minister
Parliament Hill

Note for media:

• Photo opportunity at the beginning of the meeting

Itinerary for Tuesday, April 10, 2018

April 9, 2018
Ottawa, Ontario

Itinerary for the Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, for Tuesday, April 10, 2018:

Ottawa, Ontario

2 p.m. The Prime Minister will meet with the Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, Dwight Ball.

Prime Minister’s Office
Centre Block           
Parliament Hill

Note to media:

• Photo opportunity at the beginning of the meeting

3 p.m. The Prime Minister will attend the Cabinet meeting.

Note for media:

• Ministers will be available to media in the House of Commons Foyer as of 4:30 p.m.
• UPDATE - Itinerary for Monday, April 9, 2018
  
  April 9, 2018
  Ottawa, Ontario
  
  
  Itinerary for the Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, for Monday, April 9, 2018:
  Montréal, Quebec
  2 p.m. The Prime Minister will make an announcement with the Premier of Quebec, Philippe Couillard. A joint media availability will follow.
  Bibliothèque de St-Léonard
  8420 boulevard Lacordaire
  Notes for media:
  • Media should arrive no later than 1:15 p.m.
  • Open coverage