Someone appears to be listening to our concerns about cuts to arts funding.

May 8/09

Vancouver - Carole James today announced investments in arts and culture as part of her economic stimulus plan during a campaign stop at the Firehall Arts Centre.

"In this year's budget alone, the Campbell government cut support for the arts by 44 per cent. And BC Arts and Culture Endowment grants will drop 60 per cent," said James. "It makes absolutely no economic sense to cut support for this crucial part of our economy and identity."

James announced a $50 million capital fund to invest in projects that support the growth and sustainability of BC's arts, culture and heritage. The fund would be administered by the BC Arts Council.

"The arts and culture sector employs more than 117,000 BC workers," said James. "Cutting funds to arts and culture threatens those jobs and the families that depend on them. It also undercuts our economy - for every dollar invested in arts and cultural programs, $1.36 comes back.

"New Democrats recognize the value of the arts to our culture and our communities," said James. "We also know that it has tremendous value for business, investment, jobs and quality of life in BC.

"Eight years of cuts to arts and culture is enough. It's time to stop Gordon Campbell and take back your BC," said James.

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