This is welcome proof that the federal Liberals intend to keep their election promise to invest in Canadian publishing, broadcasting, filmmaking, recording and the visual arts. But it is more than that. It's a clear signal the federal Liberals are starting to put money back into the kind of nation-building activities that fell off their priority list during their drive to eliminate the deficit. It is the first indication that Chr tien himself not just Heritage Minister Sheila Copps sees the value of Canada's cultural industries as a bulwark against the homogenizing forces of globalization and the Internet. And it is a heartening acknowledgement of this city's cultural vitality.
Culture creates jobs, generates wealth and showcases Canadian talent.
But best of all it strengthens the nation's heartbeat. Copps deserves much of the credit for last night's announcement. She has fought tenaciously for the arts at the federal cabinet table for five years. But others played a role too. Governor-General Adrienne Clarkson is a passionate defender of the arts.