Historic transfer of records to take place on Sir Wilfrid Laurier Day

Ottawa, November 20^th, 2003 — Today, the Canadian Section of the International Joint Commission (IJC) and Library and Archives Canada (LAC) finalized a unique agreement. Under this agreement, the IJC will be able to transfer records of historical significance from its Canadian Section to Library and Archives Canada.

"During the course of its history, which now spans almost 100 years, the Commission has dealt with roughly 120 separate issues along the international boundary from Passamaquoddy Bay and the St. Croix River in the east, to the Skagit River and Point Roberts in the west," said the Rt. Hon. Herb Gray, who will sign the agreement on behalf of IJC. "The Commission's records have national significance for Canada and the United States, as well as significance for persons in those two countries and elsewhere," he added.

"This is an exciting acquisition because the Commission is not required to transfer its records to Library and Archives Canada, but believes that by doing so, it will ensure their preservation and accessibility for all Canadians," said Ian E. Wilson. "The IJC, which was created during Laurier's tenure as Prime Minister, is a testament to the unique relationship between Canada and the U.S."

Earlier this year, the Canadian Section of the IJC approached LAC over concerns that records in its Ottawa office weren't adequately stored. Many of the letters, memos, and reports date back to 1909 and now require special care if they are to be preserved for posterity.

The International Joint Commission is an international organization established by the Boundary Waters Treaty of 1909 between Canada and the United States.

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