This is one of the messages I've really tried to share as I go from place to place, at all of these round tables and in each of these arts and culture locations. There are in fact 630,000 jobs that really are directly linked to the arts and culture sector here in Canada. It's a huge economic driver, a huge job creator. It also brings almost $50 billion into the Canadian economy.
The reason this is important for people to know is that there are people who don't believe that arts and culture are worthwhile. The Conservative government is here to tell them they're wrong. The Conservative government has a strong record of supporting the arts and culture sectors, and will continue to support them, because it is the right thing to do. It is about who we are. It is about our Canadian identity, and it is about job creation.
I hope all committee members will support us in these efforts to continue to promote the arts and culture sector. And I'm sure I'll learn about those who may not.