Among other things, it gives the reasons why the Canadian Memory Fund was not renewed. Before my deputy minister deals with the details and the documents of this case, I must say that people are not unanimous about this in Quebec. Some people do not agree with our policies. This is to be expected, and it does not matter very much. After all, democracy allows for debate.
And yet, we can read in Le Devoir that Luc Fournier, of the Canadian Festivals Coalition considers that the budget is very good news. Gilbert Rozon, from the Juste pour rire group, said the following: “By integrating arts and culture along with major events in his crisis policy, Prime Minister Stephen Harper recognizes the role that this sector plays in the national economy [...]“. It says here that the Canadian Museums Association warmly welcomes the investments made in culture. And there are yet other quotes. Therefore, people are not unanimous. We can debate the issues. I also know that in Quebec, Ms. St-Pierre and the members of the PQ held an important debate on culture. There is no unanimity of opinion in Quebec, but we can meet the needs of the artists. Now, the deputy minister will tell you about the documents and about the decisions that were made.