Government of Canada Announces Funding for Festiblues International de Montréal 2003
MONTRÉAL, February 9, 2003 -- Eleni Bakopanos, Member of Parliament (Ahuntsic), on behalf of Minister of Canadian Heritage Sheila Copps, today announced $10,000 in funding for the FestiBlues International de Montréal, to help finance the sixth annual festival, in 2003."I am proud to support this festival, which over the years has offered unique music that reaches deep into the roots of our culture," said Ms. Bakopanos. "The increasing popularity of FestiBlues International shows that Canadians attach great importance to the cultural wealth that defines our nation."
Every year, FestiBlues features a diverse array of blues music on indoor and outdoor stages, as well as a variety of family activities. The four-day festival has seen a remarkable rise in attendance, from 2,000, in 1998, to 60,000, in 2001. Its program has also been enhanced, and featured 15 professional concerts in 2001.
Financial assistance is provided by the Department of Canadian Heritage through its Arts Presentation Canada program.
Funding for this project was provided for in the December 2001 federal budget and is therefore built into the existing fiscal framework.
Information:
Sonya-Kim St-Julien
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage
(819) 997-7788
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