Minister comments on funding for Gros Morne Theatre Festival

Kevin Aylward, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, today commented on Theatre Newfoundland and Labrador's misrepresentation of the facts regarding provincial support for the Gros Morne Theatre Festival. Theatre Newfoundland and Labrador recently announced that it may have to cancel summer productions due to a lack of funding from corporate and government sources.

"The Department of Tourism, Culture and Recreation has been in consultation with Theatre Newfoundland and Labrador regarding funding for the Gros Morne Theatre Festival for 2001 since the fall of 2000," said Minister Aylward. "They were informed some time ago that their funding requirement has been given serious consideration and a commitment to funding was made. It is very unfortunate that Theatre Newfoundland and Labrador decided to come forward at this time knowing that government funding was forthcoming."

In March 2001, Theatre Newfoundland and Labrador requested $130,000 from the province for core funding. "Under the Culture and Heritage Element of the Comprehensive Economic Development Agreement (CEDA), $150,000 over two years has been allocated to Theatre Newfoundland and Labrador," added Minister Aylward. "This amount represents nearly 88 per cent more than contributions made under the Economic Renewal Agreement in 2000 and more than double the contribution in 1999." 

Minister Aylward is confident that this amount of funding will help ensure the continuation of this successful festival, which is enjoyed by thousands of residents and visitors alike, as well as serve to further develop the arts community on the west coast of the province.

CEDA is a joint provincial and federal program managed and shared by officials of the Department of Tourism, Culture and Recreation and Canadian Heritage.

Media Contact: Catherina Kennedy, Communications (709) 729-0928 

2001 06 15                                                          5:00 p.m.