March 1, 2004

Senator Percy Downe expressed his satisfaction, along with the ACOA Minister Joe McGuire and the Honourable Shawn Murphy, that the Government of Canada has approved an $800,000 grant for Confederation Centre of the Arts.

“ Many of us worked on this much needed additional funding for Confederation Centre of the Arts,” said Senator Downe. “I was delighted that we received final approval on the money just days before Mr. Chrétien retired.”

Mr. Wayne Hambly, Chair of the Board of Directors and David MacKenzie, Chief Executive Officer for the Confederation Centre of the Arts impressed upon the Government of Canada some months ago the need for additional funding for the Centre.

“ Confederation Centre of the Arts plays a significant role in enriching our island society,” continued Senator Downe. “We need a well-funded cultural institution that will provide a range of entertainment activities for Islanders and visitors year round.”

In response to this need, Canadian Heritage and Atlantic Canada Opportunity Agency cost-shared the funding.

The Confederation Centre of the Arts was established in 1964 as Canada’s National Memorial to the Fathers of Confederation.

The Centre is best known for The Charlottetown Festival held from late May to mid-October- where some of Canada’s finest performers, designers, playwrights, composers, and directors showcase their talent.

The most popular and successful event at the Charlottetown Festival is Canada’s longest running and arguably best-loved musical Anne of Green Gables.

The Government of Canada clearly recognizes the importance of Confederation Centre of the Arts at a local, national, and international level.

This federal government funding will enable the Confederation Centre of the Arts to offer visual and performing arts programming year round, which will only help to further enhance are already strong Canadian culture.