The Honourable Clyde Jackman, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, will address the opening of the Annual General Meeting of the Museum Association of Newfoundland and Labrador (MANL) tonight (Friday, October 17) at Gros Morne Resort in St. Paul�s. The event begins at 7:30 p.m.

"The Museum Association of Newfoundland and Labrador does tremendous work in the preservation, presentation and promotion of our cultural and heritage resources," said Minister Jackman. "The Provincial Government is proud to have increased support for the association�s efforts over the past several years, and we will continue to work with the staff and volunteers at our museums and heritage sites to ensure the visitor experience is both enjoyable and meaningful."

As part of its cultural strategy, Creative Newfoundland and Labrador, the Provincial Government has systematically increased operational and project funding to heritage initiatives.

Earlier this year, Minister Jackman announced that Budget 2008 saw close to $800,000 in operation support alone provided to more than 100 community museums, archives and heritage organizations.

"This represents an $80,000 increase in the last year, and a total increase of $474,000 since 2005," said Minister Jackman. "In addition, we increased funding to the heritage component of the Cultural Economic Development Program (CEDP) by $100,000, bringing the total support for community-based heritage projects to $1.15 million."

Peter Latta, Chair of the board of directors for MANL, said this year�s annual general meeting will focus on developing partnerships and promoting museums and heritage resources to both residents and visitors alike.

More than 65 delegates are expected to attend the MANL meeting, which runs through to October 18.

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