ACTIVITY PROGRAM FOR ACCOMPANYING PERSONS AND ATTENDEES
Monday, June 12
2:00 p.m.
MONTRÉAL SIGHTSEEING TOURThis 2.5-hour tour will let you discover Montréal’s main sites and attractions: the Old Port, the Montréal Casino, the Université de Montréal, Place Ville-Marie (main entrance to the "underground city"), photo opportunities at the St. Joseph’s Oratory and the Mount Royal lookout, as well as some of the unique architecture of Montréal houses with their famous exterior staircases, colourful neighbourhoods, the financial district, the historical Place Jacques-Cartier, along with landmarks such as Notre-Dame Basilica and McGill University.(Tour in English and French; German and Spanish available with a minimum of 30 people per motorcoach).
The coach departure location will be announced in the official hotels.
6:00 p.m.
WELCOME COCKTAIL (to be confirmed)Mr. Luc LABELLE, Vice-President, Development of cooperatives and the social economy, Investment Quebec; member, board of directors, CIRIEC-CanadaThe venue will be listed at the official hotels.
President-animator
Words of Welcome
Mr. Paul MASSICOTTE, President, Canada Cooperation Council (CCC)
Mr. Pierre BOURQUE, Mayor of Montréal
Ms. Louise HAREL, Minister of State of Municipal Affairs and Greater Montréal, Government of Quebec (subject to scheduling changes)
Tuesday, June 13
9:30 a.m.
OPENING CEREMONIES(Accompanying persons are invited to attend.)
1:30
p.m.
TOUR OF THE
BOTANICAL GARDEN, THE BIODOME AND THE INSECTARIUM
(English, French)
|
Activity reserved for accompanying persons |
This guided tour begins with a visit to the former Olympic Velodrome, which has been converted into the Biodome. The Montréal Biodome has recreated four different ecosystems, complete with flora, fauna and appropriate climatic conditions. The Laurentian ecosystem lets you follow a beaver’s movements underwater and track a lynx as it prowls through its territory. The Arctic landscape brings the visitor face to beak with penguins and puffins while the warm Tropical Rain Forest is home to basking caimans and exotic birds. Last but certainly not least is the Boreal Forest, brimming with the beauty of majestic trees and greenery. Established in 1931 by Brother Marie-Victorin, the Montréal Botanical Garden is the second largest in the world. It contains some 20,000 different botanical species planted outdoors and in greenhouses. Some 1,200 varieties of orchids, tropical and desert plants coexist harmoniously with the largest collection of dwarf trees (bonsai and benjing) outside of Asia. After leaving the plants behind, venture into the mysterious world of insects (Insectarium) from around the globe. Naturally enchanting!
7:00 p.m. MONTREAL RECEPTION
Venue: exact location will be specified in the welcome documentation kit
Mr. Pierre GENEST, President and CEO, SSQ VIE [group insurance, investments, retirement]
President-animator
Allocution Hon. Pierre PETTIGREW, Minister for International Trade, Gouvernment of Canada (subject to scheduling changes)
Wednesday, June 14
9:00 a.m.
DAY EXCURSION TO OTTAWA, ONTARIO (English, French)|
Activity reserved for accompanying persons |
The Canadian Capital is renowned for its blend of charming architecture and lovely green spaces. After just one visit you’ll never want to leave. The Parliament Buildings, overlooking the Ottawa River, offer a spectacular view of the Gatineau foothills. Marvel at Inuit art and paintings of the Group of Seven at the National Gallery, or relive the heroic exploits of yesteryear at the Canadian Museum of Civilizations, in Hull (admission to the museums not included). The embassies and consulates gracing the elegant suburb of Rockcliff represent Ottawa’s formal facet. Stop for lunch on your own at the Byward Market. If you wish end your visit to the nation capital on a relaxing note as you sip a drink on the banks of the Rideau Canal, where you can watch the boats pass through the locks.
