The Government of Canada Announces Funding for Yukon Arts Centre
WHITEHORSE, October 8, 2002 -- Larry Bagnell, Member of Parliament (Yukon), on behalf of Minister of Canadian Heritage Sheila Copps, today announced funding of $250,000 over two years for the Yukon Arts Centre, to help finance its specialized theatre and equipment upgrades."I am proud to be part of a Government that recognizes and supports the contribution of cultural institutions to our society," said Mr. Bagnell. "Every year, the Yukon Arts Centre presents a variety of arts and cultural events that contribute to the vitality of the cultural sector in the Yukon and in Canada. This funding will help present quality arts events to an ever-increasing audience."
The project will consist of an upgrading of technical and theatre stage equipment, including the replacement of obsolete lighting and sound equipment. In addition to lowering maintenance costs at the Yukon Arts Centre, the renovated facility will result in higher production values for local and professional touring events, and will benefit numerous community and professional organizations.
Financial assistance is being provided by the Department of Canadian Heritage, through the Cultural Spaces Canada program. Through this program, the Department covers up to 33% of total eligible project costs for construction and renovation of arts and heritage facilities, as well as for projects that transform buildings that were not previously used for cultural purposes into arts or heritage facilities. The Department may also finance up to 50% of total eligible project costs for specialized equipment purchases and feasibility studies. The Cultural Spaces Canada program is part of a $568-million investment in the arts and culture, announced by the Prime Minister of Canada and the Minister of Canadian Heritage, on May 2, 2001.
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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