November 22, 1996
(Tourism, Culture and Recreation)

Province's Arts and Culture Centres Being Studied

Sandra Kelly, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, today announced that government is issuing a public request for proposals to study options for operating the province's Arts and Culture Centres. The department is inviting qualified proponents to provide a detailed analysis of possible alternatives in restructuring the operations of the six Arts and Culture Centres situated throughout the province.

"The department's Cultural Affairs Division has identified one possible option whereby the Arts and Culture Centres would operate as a somewhat independent, not-for-profit organization," Ms. Kelly said. "The successful consultant will determine the feasibility of this particular option and, if necessary, propose alternatives. Consultants are required to seek input from various stakeholders including the managers of the Arts and Culture Centres, provincial arts organizations, major arts and culture clients, and municipal governments. The consultants will also examine the operations and administration of other provincial and national performing arts centres."

Government had been looking at the option of transferring the Arts and Culture Centres to appropriate regional or community organizations. However, an acceptable arrangement had not materialized. It is anticipated that this review will lead to a new and mutually beneficial arrangement for these centres and government.

"After almost 30 years of being run by government, it is clear that other options for the Centres need to be carefully analysed," the minister said. "It is government's goal to implement a direction which will effectively and efficiently secure a variety of cultural programming while encouraging and giving representation to local artists and companies."

The contract is expected to be awarded by December 20, 1996 with the consultant's final report to be completed by late February, 1997.

Contact: Laura Cochrane, Communications Director, Department of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, (709) 729-0928 fax: (709) 729-0870.