DOLBEAU-MISTASSINI, Quebec, June 14, 2007 - On behalf of the Honourable Beverley J. Oda, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Status of Women, the Honourable Jean-Pierre Blackburn, Minister of Labour, Minister of Canada Economic Development, and Member of Parliament (Jonquière-Alma), today announced $2,074,492 in funding for the City of Dolbeau-Mistassini. Funds will support the refurbishing of the city's performance hall.
"When completed, the cultural presentation space in Dolbeau-Mistassini will welcome approximately 20 shows a year, as well as many activities organized throughout the year by arts organizations in the area," said Minister Oda. "Our contribution will allow for the construction of an additional section for the presentation stage and additional spaces for artists and specialized equipment.Canada's New Government is proud to support a project that will enrich the cultural life of residents in the greater Dolbeau-Mistassini area."
"The funding announced today is excellent news for local residents, as well as for the arts and cultural community in the Dolbeau-Mistassini area," said Minister Blackburn. "It demonstrates our Government's determination to provide Canadians across the country with access to enriching cultural experiences. I would like to thank all those who helped make this project a reality."
"The community of upper Lac St-Jean is very pleased with this contribution from Canadian Heritage to building a multi-purpose performance hall in Dolbeau-Mistassini," said Claude Godbout, director of recreation for the City of Dolbeau-Mistassini. "The 491-seat capacity hall and its reception area, which can accommodate up to 400 people, are important assets for our community. The City of Dolbeau-Mistassini is grateful to Canadian Heritage for this major financial support for a community-uniting project."
The City of Dolbeau-Mistassini is receiving funding from Canadian Heritage for the first time. Canada's New Government has provided funding through the Cultural Spaces Canada program of Canadian Heritage, which supports cultural infrastructure projects that increase access for Canadians to performing, visual, and media arts and also improves physical conditions for artistic creativity and innovation. Funding is also provided for the construction and renovation of arts and heritage facilities, for the purchase of specialized equipment, and for feasibility studies and projects to transform buildings into arts or heritage facilities.
Information:
Véronique Bruneau
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and
Status of Women
819 997-7788
Roxane Marchand
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canada Economic Development
819 953-5646
Marie-Claude Cadorette
Communications Manager
Canadian Heritage
Quebec Region
514 283-4027
