The Department of Tourism, Culture and Recreation has received the final report of an independent consultant�s report which makes several recommendations on the future operations of the province�s six Arts and Culture Centres, including changes to the governance structure, the development of relevant programming, and improved marketing initiatives.

The Honourable Clyde Jackman, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, said the department will now review the recommendations provided by the consultant, ArtsExperts.ca, and determine its future course of action.

"In the coming weeks, we will be looking closely at each of the specific recommendations and determining how they might be implemented, and over what timeframe," said Minister Jackman. "It must be stated, meanwhile, that we are absolutely committed to continuing to support all of our Arts and Culture Centres. This strategic and operational review was commissioned in order to outline new directions for the centres which will enhance and support what is already strong and valued by the communities in which they operate."

In 2006, the Provincial Government released a cultural strategy: Creative Newfoundland and Labrador � The Blueprint for Development and Investment in Culture, which committed $17.6 million in new funding to the culture and heritage sectors over a three-year period. As part of that strategy, $75,000 was earmarked for the development of a strategic plan that would encourage more community involvement in the province�s Arts and Culture Centres.

Minister Jackman said the consultant was asked to confer with management, staff, arts advocates, patrons, and community members to determine how the Arts and Culture Centres could become more relevant and accessible to the communities they serve, and to establish priorities over the next five years to ensure they continue to be the vibrant centres of cultural activity they have been for many years.

The Department of Tourism, Culture and Recreation has more than doubled its investment in arts, culture and heritage initiatives since 2003, increasing the budget from $11.4 million to $23.6 million in 2008.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador operates Arts and Culture Centres in Labrador City, Stephenville, Corner Brook, Grand Falls-Windsor, Gander and St. John�s.

The ArtExperta.ca report on the province�s Arts and Culture Centres can be viewed at: //www.tcr.gov.nl.ca/tcr/publications/2008/ACCReport.pdf

- 30 -

Media contact:
Heather May
Director of Communications
Department of Tourism, Culture and Recreation
709-729-0928, 697-5061
heathermay@gov.nl.ca 

2008 09 08                                                    4:05p.m.