We reported this morning that the federal government would be cutting PromArt, a grant program that helped Canadian artists travel abroad and promote Canadian culture. That program was run by the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade.
A few minutes ago, the Department of Canadian Heritage announced the end of its “Trade Routes” program.
What is Trade Routes?
“Trade Routes is a comprehensive trade development program specifically designed for Canada’s arts and cultural sector. The program helps profit and not-for-profit organizations in the arts and cultural sector prepare to export and sell in international markets.
In particular, the program offers access to market research, trade experts in Canada and abroad, and financial support.”
So far as we can tell there has been no official announcement about the closure of the PromArt program but, if you check the program's application page, you'll see the notice that the program will be discontinued on March 31, 2009. That notice wasn't there yesterday.
UPDATE: My colleague Amy Husser has more on the cuts to Trade Routes.
David,
I think cutting this program is a good thing. I dont understand why your making such a big deal of it? I guess it must be a slow summer. Most taxpayers will welcome cutting this kind of waste.
If these groups want to go on 'cultural' trips to Europe, then let them pay for it themselves.
I expect a little more out of David Akin.
Rav
I also agree that it should go. After looking at the list of payees, it looks like a big waste of taxpayer money. I'm sure the Liberals will make a big deal out of it as it fits in with their views on entitlement. And in the next breath there will be a big deal made about the Cons mismanaging the economy. Time for an election in the fall.
I wonder how much money the government spends helping corporations outside of the arts and cultural sector with access to market research, trade experts and financial support?