The Liberal party understands that arts and culture play a significant role in supporting the Canadian in economy. In 1996-97, the arts and culture trade generated $22.5 billion dollars for the Canadian economy. This number has only grown in recent years. Beyond the economic impact, however, the arts are a critical element in what defines us as Canadians. The protection and proliferation of our unique and distinctive arts community is critical to Canada’s health, both on the national and international stage.

In order to protect the diverse and remarkable community of artists that Canada boasts, it is critical to develop tools that will support the creative members of our society and allow them to prosper. The Liberal government has introduced many initiatives designed to help Canada’s artists support themselves, while at the same time exploring their creative interests.

The Department of Canadian Heritage offers a number of programs, including the Cultural Initiatives Program, which facilitates the involvement of artists from across Canada in over 150 national and international art festivals and special art events. Canadian Heritage also operates a national arts training contribution program, supporting national institutions that prepare young people for professional arts careers.

The Canadian Council of Arts is an arms-length government organization that seeks to foster and promote the study and production of works in the arts. In 2003, the Council distributed $142.3 million in grants and prizes to 6000 artists and art institutions and 13,889 writers.

The Liberal government also recognizes that reduced taxes can significantly ease the financial burden on low-income Canadians, including many of our artists. That is why the Liberal government, starting with Budget 2000, has consistently implemented policies to reduce taxation to these individuals. The tax rate for individuals who make less that $35,000 annually has now been reduced to 16%. Furthermore, the basic personal tax exemption has been increased to $8,000.

These tax cuts, combined with the direct support offered by the Canadian government, creates an environment for Canadian artists not simply to subsist, but to flourish, with the collective benefits strengthening our nation’s culture.

The Liberal Government has developed a strong broadcasting system that meets the cultural objectives of Canadians. We will continue building a strong, vibrant system that reflects the lives and the values of Canadians from all parts of this country. The Liberal government places a heavy emphasis on Canadian content for several reasons. Culturally, Canadian programs and music give voice to Canadians, to their talent and their shared experiences. Economically, it means jobs for thousands of Canadians – from creation to production and distribution on the airwaves.

As an example of the Liberal Government’s Commitment to a strong broadcasting sector was the establishment of the Canada Television Fund – a private-public partnership whose goal is to assist the creation and broadcast of high-quality culturally significant Canadian television programs in English, French and Aboriginal Languages from all regions of the country. In Budget 2004, the Liberal government increased funding for the fund to $100 million annually.

The Liberal government also understands that cultural institutions begin production of their programs and films several years in advance. We support the recommendation of the Standing Committee on Canadian Heritage to provide these institutions with stable multi-year funding. For example, Budget 1997 guaranteed stable funding to the CBC for 5 years. Since that promise, funding for the CBC has steadily risen from $806.4 million in 1997-98 to $1.0465 billion in 2002-03.

In light of conflicting reports from two House of Commons committees on the issue of foreign ownership, the Liberal government has undertaken an assessment of foreign ownership rules for cable and satellite distribution systems. The Heritage Minister has indicated to the Standing Committee on Canadian Heritage that the strength of Canada’s broadcasting system must not be compromised by any kind of foreign-ownership measures. Canada has the right and the duty to protect its cultural identity. A new Liberal government will continue to promote and protect Canadian cultural content.

Canada’s tradition of arts is an important thread in the fabric that holds our country together. Art educates, it lifts spirits, and it promotes the values that Canadians cherish. The Liberal government will continue to support and embrace all that the arts community has to offer.