Harper Government Invests in Newfoundland and Labrador's Culture

PASADENA, NL, July 4, 2012 /CNW/ - New investments in arts and culture will strengthen the cultural and economic vitality of communities in Newfoundland and Labrador. Support for eight projects was announced today by the Honourable Peter Penashue, Regional Minister for Newfoundland and Labrador, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs and President of the Queen's Privy Council for Canada, on behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages.

"Festivals and other cultural activities are great opportunities to showcase local heritage and artists, during fostering a sense of community pride," said Minister Penashue. "Investing in arts and culture is central to the economic health of communities across Canada."

"Our Government received a strong mandate from Canadians to invest in projects that boost tourism and strengthen our economy," said Minister Moore. "By supporting these important projects, we are delivering on our commitment to strengthen Canada's economy and support our arts, culture, and heritage."

"The financial support from the Government of Canada is essential to the success of our 10-day event celebrating our heritage in Pasadena," said Wanda Wight, Event Coordinator. "For more than 25 years the Humber Valley Strawberry Festival has been one of the largest celebrations of summer in the Humber Valley area. The Pasadena Days activities will be informative and educational and a great possibility to share and celebrate our local culture and history through arts, dance, and music."

The Government of Canada has provided total funding of $135,100 through the following programs of the Department of Canadian Heritage: the Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program and the Canada Arts Presentation Fund. For more information on the projects, see the attached backgrounder.