Order of Canada Investiture for René Angélil and Céline Dion

Established in 1967 by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the Order of Canada is the centrepiece of the Canadian Honours System, and recognizes a lifetime of outstanding achievement, dedication to the community and service to the nation. The Order recognizes people in all sectors of Canadian society. Their contributions are varied, yet they have all enriched the lives of others and made a difference to this country.

Mrs. Dion was presented with insignia of Companion of the Order of Canada (C.C.). This is a promotion within the Order. "Céline Dion is not only an extraordinary ambassador for Canada, she also represents the values we hold dear. Her unique voice, infectious energy and great sensitivity contribute to her remarkable stage presence, which has won her fans from around the world. Moreover, her talent has garnered her countless national and international awards and honours. An incomparable artist, she is equally known for her compassion, generosity and commitment to a number of social and humanitarian causes. She is notably the national celebrity patron for Cystic Fibrosis Canada and honorary patron of the CHU Sainte-Justine. In addition, through her foundation, she also helps children in need and their families here in Canada and abroad."

Mr. Angélil was presented with the insignia of Member of the Order of Canada (C.M.). "One of our leading producers and artist managers, René Angélil is also an example of generosity. With determination and extraordinary flair, he propelled the careers of Québécois singers, whose successes now reach well beyond our borders. His work often takes him to the four corners of the earth, where he collaborates with Canadian stage professionals, bringing our arts industry to the world stage. He also supports several organizations through his volunteer and philanthropic activities, including the first ORL (otorhinolaryngology) oncology research chair in Quebec, which he helped to create. He is also an honorary lifetime patron of the CHU Sainte-Justine."

Mrs. Dion and M. Angélil each signed the Order of Canada register.

The Order of Canada investiture ceremony took place at the Residence of the Governor General at the Citadelle of Québec, on July 26, 2013. At the end of the ceremony, guests sang along to the national anthem.

The Governor General and Mr. Angélil had a chance to speak afterwards.

"At each ceremony I am struck by the amazing things that Canadians create when they work together using their diverse talents to make a stronger nation a smarter, more caring Canada," said His Excellency. "That is exactly what you have done throughout your professional lives and in your philanthropic work. You have achieved international success, and have been wonderful ambassadors for Canada on the world stage."