Statement by Minister Gilles Arsenault on the passing of Antoine Richard

Hon. Gilles Arsenault, Minister responsible for Acadian and Francophone Affairs of Prince Edward Island issued the following statement: 

“I am saddened to hear of the passing of Antoine Richard. 

Antoine was a proud Acadian from Mont-Carmel who played a pivotal role in strengthening and advancing the Acadian and Francophone community in Prince Edward Island.

As the first development officer of the former Société Saint-Thomas-d’Aquin (now the Société acadienne et francophone de l’Île-du-Prince-Édouard), Antoine worked hard to build Acadian associations across the Island. His lifelong dedication helped bring many organizations to life, including the Carrefour de l’Isle-Saint-Jean, the Coopérative Le Chez-Nous and the Association touristique Évangéline (now the Association touristique AcadieÎPÉ). 

Antoine was a true leader and visionary, and his remarkable contributions have been widely recognized—he has received several prestigious honours, including the Order of Canada, the Order of Prince Edward Island, the Léger-Comeau Medal, and the title of Acadian of the Year.

I would like to extend my sincere condolences to his family, friends and the Acadian and Francophone community.” 

Media contact:
Nicole Yeba
Acadian and Francophone Affairs
ntyeba@gov.pe.ca