Impact of Ontario's budget on cultural sector
May 20, 2004
The McGuinty government released its first budget on Tuesday, May 18 and the effect it will have on the Ontario cultural sector is still being assessed. The OMA received budget information specific to culture from Micheline McKay, of The Arts Advocate, who was in the budget lock up.
Here are some of the highlights obtained by the OMA:
The most notable announcement is that operating expenditures at the Ontario Ministry of Culture will cut by $17 million next year. It appears that capital spending will increase significantly, a fact attributed to the many capital projects already underway.
Rita Scagnetti, Director of Heritage and Libraries Branch, indicated that the Ministry of Culture cuts would not affect funding to the sector. She said that the Ministry would "protect operating support to community museums and libraries." Funding for the Community Museums Operating Grant and the Public Libraries Operating Grant is expected to remain the same next year.
The cut of $5 million dollars to the Ontario Trillium Foundation was unexpected by the cultural sector. The budget papers indicate that the Foundation will be able to continue granting $100 million this year but the long-term implications are unclear.
The Ontario Arts Council will receive the remaining $7.5 million of its $15 million funding pledge. The confirmation was received from Department of Finance officials.
Further details of the budget still remain unknown and the Association is seeking additional information on the membership's behalf.
Opportunity to visit your MPP
For your information, the Legislature’s spring ‘Constituency Week’ break takes place next week. You may want to drop by and see your MPP. There will be no legislative sessions or committee meetings during the week beginning May 24. The Legislature will resume on Monday, May 31.
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