Harper Government Invests in Arts, Culture, and Official Languages in Newfoundland and Labrador

(Happy Valley – Goose Bay, Newfoundland and Labrador, August 23, 2012) – New investments in arts, culture and official languages in Newfoundland and Labrador are helping boost the economy and create jobs and growth. Support for 46 projects throughout the province was announced today by the Honourable Vic Toews, Minister of Public Safety, on behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages.

Funding will support a wide range of projects across the province. Some of the organizations receiving support include the Placentia Area Historical Society, provincial Arts and Culture Centres in various locations, the Newfoundland Aboriginal Women’s Network, the Association francophone du Labrador, and the Labrador Creative Arts Festival. From local festivals to major cultural events and community development activities, projects will provide residents and visitors with rich cultural experiences.

“This year marks the start of the five-year countdown to Canada’s 150th birthday in 2017,” said Minister Moore. “Our Government is proud to invest in projects that contribute to our collective identity and define who we are as Canadians. On the road to 2017, let us continue to celebrate all of the things that make Canada the united, prosperous and free country we are today.”

“Investing in arts and culture is important to Newfoundland and Labrador,” said Minister Toews. “We are proud to partner with groups that contribute to the cultural vitality of this province. These projects will strengthen our communities, benefit local economies, and promote tourism across the province.”

“The Labrador Creative Arts Festival committee is deeply appreciative of the long-term support we have received from the Government of Canada for our festival, which is in its 37th year and is the longest-running children’s festival in Canada. Young people in Labrador from Nain to Black Tickle come together to celebrate their communities through performing arts, to express their thoughts and hopes, and to learn to enhance their skills through workshops and performances offered by visiting artists in many disciplines,” said Martha MacDonald, Chair of the Festival. “All this is made possible through the contributions of agencies and corporations. The Department of Canadian Heritage has long been an important participant in the festival, and we are grateful for the support we receive and for the assistance of the staff.”

The Government of Canada has provided total funding of $868,619 through eight programs of the Department of Canadian Heritage: the Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program, the Canada Arts Presentation Fund, the Museums Assistance Program. the Development of Official-Language Communities program, the Enhancement of Official Languages Program, the Aboriginal Women’s Programming Elements of the Aboriginal Peoples’ Program, the Canada Book Fund, and the Canada Cultural Investment Fund.

Read more: NationTalk.ca

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