OTTAWA, August 22, 2007 - The Honourable Josée Verner, Minister of Canadian Heritage, Status of Women and Official Languages, today announced $260,000 in funding over two years for the Réseau national des galas de la chanson and its programming. Of this amount, $70,000 per year will help give amateur artists from minority Francophone communities access to high-quality training in the field of song, in their own language and environment. In addition, six participants--representing the Atlantic region, Ontario, the North, and Western Canada--will be selected to take part in training and development workshops offered at the Festival international de la chanson de Granby. This year, the Festival will take place from September 5 to 15.
"The Festival international de la chanson de Granby is a unique opportunity for our young artists to meet fellow artists and enjoy an unforgettable experience while gaining vital experience in the field of song," said Minister Verner. "I am proud that the support of our Government is helping young Francophone artists from all over Canada showcase their talent."
The aim of the Réseau national des galas de la chanson is to connect and strengthen French language song competitions held throughout the country. The Réseau is made up of Chant'Ouest, representing the four galas in the Western provinces; Ontario Pop; and the Gala de la chanson de Caraquet, representing the Atlantic provinces. The Festival international de la chanson de Granby coordinates and manages Réseau projects.
Canada's New Government has provided the support under the Development of Official-Language Communities Program. This program of the Department of Canadian Heritage is designed to foster the vitality of members of Canada's French and English minority-language communities and enable them to participate fully in all aspects of Canadian life.
Information: Richard Walker
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage,
Status of Women and Official Languages
819 997-7788
Donald Boulanger
A/Chief, Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819 994-9101
