Tabling of the Bill Creating the Library and Archives of Canada
OTTAWA, May 8, 2003 -- Minister of Canadian Heritage Sheila Copps today tabled a Bill in the House of Commons to create the Library and Archives of Canada. The Bill is designed to give this new institution, which combines the National Library of Canada and the National Archives of Canada, a broader mandate than that of the two existing institutions.The Government of Canada made a commitment in the Speech from the Throne on September 30, 2002 to give Canadians greater access to their history and culture. The creation of this modern and dynamic knowledge institution of international status will serve Canadians' interest by making their documentary heritage more widely accessible.
The proposed legislative framework will allow the Library and Archives of Canada to play an important role in making Canadians more aware of their history and culture.
"The newly created agency will make greater use of 21st century technologies to reach Canadians," said Minister Copps. "It will also be in a better position to improve access for all Canadians to our country's documentary heritage."
Consultations on the creation of this new institution have already been held with representatives of the publishing sector, libraries and archives communities, and further consultations will be held with key interested parties to ensure a smooth transition.
Committed to finding solutions to storage and preservation shortfalls that have plagued the National Archives and National Library, the Government of Canada allocated $15 million in the 2003 budget to fulfill short-term storage needs and to undertake studies to find the best solution to fulfill long-term preservation requirements.
Information:
Sonya-Kim St-Julien
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage
(819) 997-7788
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