Investment in Arts and Culture Continues to be a Priority

Cultural organizations, both arts and heritage, are recognized by the Provincial Government as vital contributors to the province. Today in the House of Assembly, the Honourable Derrick Dalley, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, expressed his support of the cultural community.

“Our government has a great appreciation for the groups and organizations that define who we are as a people, as well as generate economic impact,” said Minister Dalley. “Since 2006 and the development of our cultural plan, we have invested $56 million into culture and heritage in this province.”

In 2006, the Provincial Government launched Creative Newfoundland and Labrador: A Blueprint for Investment in Arts and Culture. This is a living document that was designed to establish a foundation to guide all future cultural policies and directions. Upon its launch, the Provincial Government made a significant investment in culture. This included doubling the Newfoundland and Labrador Arts Council budget, tripling the Cultural Economic Development Program, establishing the Publishers Assistance Program, investing in capital in the LSPU Hall, doubling the Arts and Letters Awards budget, and increasing both the Music NL and Newfoundland and Labrador Film Development budgets.

While the cultural strategy outlined an initial three-year commitment, this investment has been renewed annually, with increases to various components of the cultural sector over the years since 2009, including Arts and Letters, Newfoundland and Labrador Arts Council, Arts and Culture Centres, Lawrence O’Brien Arts Centre, Music NL, Newfoundland and Labrador Film Development Corporation, and Republic of Doyle.

Today in the House of Assembly, Minister Dalley explained the budget process for arts and culture organizations when asked by the third party when arts and culture organizations will receive notification of this year’s funding.

“Cultural organizations know we are going through a budget process,” said Minister Dalley. “As soon as we are through that exercise, these organizations will be notified of how much we are able to support them this year. We will continue to ensure these organizations are viable and sustainable into the future.”

The Provincial Government has a strong, positive relationship with the cultural communities in Newfoundland and Labrador and works closely with them in all facets of its work, such as participation on long-standing arts and heritage committees.

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Media contact:
Diana Quinton
Director of Communications
Department of Tourism, Culture and Recreation
709-729-0928, 631-8155
dianaquinton@gov.nl.ca 

2012 03 21             6:00 p.m.