Harper Government Invests in the Journal of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada
TORONTO, August 16, 2012 - The Royal Astronomical Society of Canada will be able to launch an outreach project to increase subscription sales of its journal and improve its capacity to compete in the creative economy, thanks to an investment from the Harper Government. This was announced today by Bernard Trottier, Member of Parliament (Etobicoke–Lakeshore), on behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages.
The Journal of the Royal Astronomical Society is published six times a year. It features articles about Canadian astronomers and current activities of the Society and its local centres, as well as papers by professional and amateur astronomers.
“This year marks the start of the five-year countdown to Canada’s 150th birthday in 2017,” said Minister Moore. “Our Government is proud to invest in projects like the Journal of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada that contribute to our collective identity and define who we are as Canadians. On the road to 2017, let us continue to celebrate all of the things that make Canada the united, prosperous and free country we are today.”
“By supporting the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada, our Government is delivering on its commitment to strengthen our economy and support our arts, culture, and heritage,” said Mr. Trottier.
“The Royal Astronomical Society of Canada is tremendously grateful for the Government of Canada’s continued support,” said Deborah Thompson, Executive Director. “Since 1868, the society has sought to improve understanding of astronomy through education, outreach, and research initiatives. With this latest assistance, we are now able to begin work on a supplement to our bimonthly publication, The Journal, entitled ‘Environmental Impact of Light-Pollution and its Abatement.’ This insert will be a compendium of current scientific information on the issue of light pollution, including its causes, harmful effects, and possible social and political solutions.”
The Government of Canada has provided funding of $14,970 through the Business Innovation component of the Canada Periodical Fund. The Fund invests in periodicals like this one to help increase the overall health of the Canadian magazine and non-daily newspaper industries. The Business Innovation component encourages innovation to adapt to changing market conditions and contributes to the diversity of content sought by Canadian readers.
For more information (media only), please contact:
Sébastien Gariépy
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage
and Official Languages
819-997-7788