May 7 , 2008
For Immediate Release
Nova Scotia’s arts and culture sector received another indication that government is listening in last week’s budget speech, which detailed a three-year commitment to double the culture budget.
Chair of the Nova Scotia Arts and Culture Partnership Council (NSACPC), Paul Gallant, called the budget positive news for the province's arts and culture sector.
"The council has worked hard over the past five years, and we are pleased to see that government increased the culture budget this year and made specific commitments for the next two years,” said Mr. Gallant. “We would certainly liked to have seen more in the first year, but we believe this is a good start and will allow us time to plan for the future investments.”
The province made the commitment to double the culture budget over three years in the fall 2007 throne speech. At that time, the total culture budget was $8.2 million. This year’s budget includes an increase of $1.2 million – a 14 per cent increase over last year – with a commitment to invest an additional $2.4 million next year and $4.6 million in the third year. This will bring the total culture budget to $16.4 million 2010-11.
“This is a step in the right direction. Council looks forward to continuing our work with our government partners over the next few years to implement our Creative Nova Scotia report in support of the arts and culture sector,” said Mr. Gallant.
Since the NSACPC was established in 2003, provincial spending on arts and culture has increased by 61 per cent.
The NSACPC, in consultation with the arts and culture sector, provides advice and recommendations to guide the Department of Tourism, Culture and Heritage regarding ongoing investment in Nova Scotia's artists, cultural industries and cultural activities. For more information on the council or to view the Creative Nova Scotia report, visit the council's website at www.nsacpc.com.
Media Contact:
Paul Gallant
Nova Scotia Arts and Culture Partnership Council
902-224-5340
E-mail: leconseildesartspaul@ns.sympatico.ca