Harper Government Invests in Arts and Culture in Abitibi–Témiscamingue

VAL-D’OR, Quebec, July 11, 2012 - New investments in the arts and culture sectors are helping boost the economy in the Abitibi–Témiscamingue region. Funding for six projects was announced today by Jacques Gourde, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Public Works and Government Services, for Official Languages and for the Economic Development Agency for the Regions of Quebec, on behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages.

The funding will support organizations and projects in the Abitibi‑Témiscamingue region—including local cultural and heritage festivals and organizations—that aim to offer citizens rich cultural experiences.

“Our Government received a strong mandate from Canadians to invest in culture and in organizations that celebrate our heritage and help define our identity,” said Minister Moore. “By supporting these organizations, our Government is delivering on its commitment to strengthen our economy and our communities and to support arts, culture, and heritage in Quebec.”

“By funding local cultural organizations, our Government is helping stimulate the regional economy and enrich the quality of life of our citizens,” said Mr. Gourde. “Our Government will continue to support cultural organizations in all regions of Quebec that do so much for our province’s economy.”

The Government of Canada has provided total funding of $95,500 through three programs of the Department of Canadian Heritage: Building Communities through Arts and Heritage, the Museums Assistance Program, and the Canada Book Fund. For more information about the projects, see the attached backgrounder.

For more information (media only), please contact:

Sébastien Gariépy
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage
and Official Languages
819-997-7788

Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
media@pch.gc.ca