Minister Copps Announces Funding for the Confederation Centre of the Arts
CHARLOTTETOWN, August 16, 2002 -- Minister of Canadian Heritage Sheila Copps today announced funding of $885,000 over three years for the Confederation Centre of the Arts."I am proud to be part of a Government that recognizes and supports the contribution of cultural institutions to our society," said Minister Copps. "Every year, the Confederation Centre of the Arts presents a variety of arts and cultural events that contribute to the vitality of the cultural sector in Prince Edward Island and in Canada. This funding will help present quality arts events to an ever-increasing audience."
"This support illustrates the importance that the Government of Canada places on one of our country's unique cultural institutions," said Federal Solicitor General Lawrence MacAulay. "In fact, this institution is all the more important because it evokes the most decisive pages in our collective history and reminds Canadians, as well as visitors to our country, of the very origins of modern Canada."
The financial assistance provided by the Department of Canadian Heritage will support the Confederation Centre of the Arts in a period of change and revitalization. The Fathers of Confederation Buildings Trust will continue to focus on the Centre's growth, innovation and financial stability.
"This is wonderful news for the Confederation Centre of the Arts," said H. Wayne Hambly, Chair of the Fathers of Confederation Buildings Trust. "On behalf of the Trust, I extend our deepest appreciation to the Minister of Canadian Heritage. This funding will allow us to continue to follow the new direction and the process of expansion identified in our strategic business plan and to make the Centre more meaningful to all Canadians."
The Confederation Centre of the Arts was built in 1964. The mandate of the Centre is to inspire Canadians, through arts and heritage, to celebrate the origins and the evolution of Canada.
Funding for this project was provided for in the December 2001 federal budget and is therefore built into the existing fiscal framework.
Information:
Kerry Edmonds
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage
(819) 997-7788
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