YELLOWKNIFE (September 16, 2014) – Minister of Education, Culture and Employment Jackson Lafferty met with federal and provincial Ministers of Culture and Heritage last week to review new economic data on culture, arts, heritage and sport in Canada. The meeting was co-chaired by the Honourable Shelly Glover, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, and the Honourable Robert Henderson, Minister of Tourism and Culture for Prince Edward Island.
The economic data comes from the Culture Satellite Account (CSA), a precise and reliable source using the most rigorous and transparent methodology to date to measure the economic importance and activity of arts, culture and heritage in Canada. The CSA stems from a partnership between Statistics Canada, Canadian Heritage, all of the provinces and territories, numerous municipalities and several non-governmental organizations. New statistics will be provided every year on a range of indicators, such as gross domestic product (GDP) and jobs.
“Arts and culture are extremely important to Northerners many of whom make their living in this way,” said Minister Lafferty. Having an accurate way to measure the impact and importance of these activities provides us with reliable evidence on which to base investment decisions on the arts.”
Other priorities and collaborative projects were discussed at the meeting such as working together to grow the creative economy; supporting heritage conservation through sustainability, revitalization and re-use of heritage buildings; and TV channel unbundling. Ministers also discussed the upcoming celebrations of the 150th anniversary of Confederation, including economic opportunities it presents and how to get youth involved.
Ministers re-affirmed their interest in the 2015 Pan Am/Parapan Am Games, which will give provinces and territories a chance to highlight and celebrate their culture and creativity.
Media inquiries:
Jacqueline McKinnon
Manager, Public Affairs and Communications
Education, Culture and Employment
Phone: (867) 920-6222
Email: jacqueline_mckinnon@gov.nt.ca