The Government of Canada is helping to build stronger communities across our great country. We are supporting small businesses, we are investing in community infrastructure, and we are working to make our streets safer for all Canadians.

We are also pleased and proud to be able to partner in activities that celebrate Canada’s history, arts, and heritage.  We recognize that many Canadians from coast to coast do their part to ensure the vitality of their communities.  And we recognize and applaud the efforts of citizens who volunteer their time to organize events that enrich the fabric of community life. 

I have been fortunate to make several funding announcements in recent weeks on behalf of my colleague James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages.  This includes many festivals in the Palliser riding, including the Motif Moose Jaw Multicultural Festival, the Saskatchewan Festival of Words, the Regina Fringe Theatre Festival, and the Cathedral Village Arts Festival.

Events such as these not only celebrate our Canadian culture, but also help us to understand who we are and where we come from.  They provide a boost to our local businesses and help support our local artists and artisans.  I am proud that these festivals are happening, in part, because of contributions from the Government of Canada. 

In September 2007, our Government announced the Building Communities through Arts and Heritage (BCAH) program to provide Canadians with more opportunities to take part in local activities that present arts and culture and celebrate local history and heritage.  At the heart of this announcement was an expression of pride in our communities and a desire to partner with these communities.  It is through this program that many festivals, in the Palliser riding and throughout Canada, are receiving federal funding.

Our Government wants to partner with communities. We want to encourage the stories and the celebrations. We want future generations to be aware of their origins and Canada’s rich and diverse heritage.  By doing so, we become stronger and more united and, in turn, that helps strengthen our sense of identity as Canadians.

As a Member of Parliament, one of the most gratifying parts of my job is to help deliver federal government support to worthy recipients.  I am pleased that these festivals, and others across Canada, have received our support and I look forward to attending some of these festivals during the summer months.  I would also like to take this opportunity to encourage all Saskatchewan residents to take in a festival this summer.  Hope to see you there!