Finance committee  I don't have those numbers in front of me. What I can tell you is that those numbers you've just cited seem to reinforce the idea that the arts and culture are a sound investment. How it fares and how it compares to other nations is certainly something we can provide.

Finance committee  That is a good question. Earlier, I had started to say that clearly, the Canada Council for the Arts has a role to play in supporting the promotion of arts and culture on the international scene, however, it should not be the only player that promotes and is responsible for cultural diplomacy.

Finance committee  I am fully aware of the fact that we are presenting you with a real puzzle.

Finance committee  We could get back to you with some proposals.

Finance committee  We recognize that there are probably other mechanisms which would enable the government to promote arts and culture internationally. The Canada Council for the Arts certainly has a role to play in this sector, however, it is not the exclusive player nor is it the only intervener that should be supported in—

Finance committee  Radio-Canada remains a vital ally of the artistic community from one end of the country to the next. Obviously we are concerned about its continuity and stability, but it does not figure in our recommendations this year.

Finance committee  I would answer by saying that these two issues, these two recommendations that you have before you and which are in our brief, are those for which there is the widest consensus within the artistic community from one end of the country to the other. Clearly, there are other priorities, there are other requirements and we could have presented you with a long 10-page shopping list, full of concerns and priorities.

Finance committee  Pardon me?

Finance committee  That is why we have turned to the committee, and not Santa Claus. However, I would tell you that of course there have been many discussions about the tax measures that could have been implemented in order to promote artists and cultural workers. This remains a concern, but it is not a priority for this year, given the economic situation and the nature of the proposals we have made to you.

Finance committee  Excellent questions, excellent points.

Finance committee  Mr. Chair, ladies and gentlemen members of the committee, distinguished guests, good morning. I would like to thank you for having invited the Canadian Arts Coalition to appear before the Standing Committee on Finance as part of its pre-budget consultations. I am pleased to speak on behalf of the largest association of arts, culture and heritage stakeholders in Canada and to talk about the importance of the arts as a driver of the Canadian economy and a sector that will help Canada come out of the current economic crisis in a stronger position.