FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 29, 2016
Ottawa, ON — CIJA National Chair, David J. Cape, representing Jewish Federations of Canada-UIA and Jewish federations across the country, is traveling with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to Israel to attend the funeral of former President Shimon Peres, z”l.
Also traveling with Prime Minister Trudeau are former Prime Minister Jean Chrétien, Foreign Minister Stéphane Dion, and the Honourable Rona Ambrose, Leader of the Official Opposition. The Canadian delegation will be joined in Israel by former Prime Minister Stephen Harper (traveling from London, England), CIJA Board member and former Cabinet member Stockwell Day, and Senator Linda Frum.
Rick Ekstein, representing CJPAC, also joined the Prime Minister’s flight.
David J. Cape expressed appreciation to the Canadian government for graciously facilitating participation of the organized Jewish community in paying final tribute to the last of Israel’s founding fathers:
“It is both humbling and gratifying to represent the Federation community, especially in light of the dynamic relationship Shimon Peres had with so many Jewish federations in Canada over so many decades. His legacy will live on in our hearts just as his singular contribution to building the State of Israel will endure.”
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Media Availability: David J. Cape, CIJA’s national Chair, is available for comment in Israel and remotely. To make arrangements, please contact:
Martin Sampson
Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs
613-219-3500