Eleanor McMahon on New Culture Investment in 2017 Ontario Budget

In the 10 months since assuming the Tourism, Culture and Sport portfolio, I have had the opportunity to travel the province to meet with artists, arts workers, librarians and heritage advocates. You have graciously welcomed me into your theatres and galleries, your studios and on to your film sets. And we have engaged in some wonderful conversations about Ontario’s thriving culture sector. You were not shy about sharing your opinions about our successes, and also areas where we could use some improvement.

 

I have listened carefully to each and every one of you, and that is why it’s my absolute pleasure to share today’s news with you. Earlier today our government released the 2017-18 provincial budget, which brings enhanced investment in the culture sector.

The Ontario Arts Council (OAC) will receive a $20 million increase over four years. The Ontario culture sector is growing and it’s important that the OAC keeps pace and I look forward to seeing the impact that this increased investment will make.

 

I am also pleased to announce that MTCS will be implementing a one-time $1 million investment in our northern, rural and Indigenous libraries. Libraries are the hearts of our communities, and I know that this investment in digital services and connectivity will be welcomed across the province. We’ll have more details to share with you on this program soon.

I look forward to working with all of you as we continue to implement Ontario’s Culture Strategy, and ensure that Ontario’s culture sector flourishes.