We certainly have our local network and our own way of doing things in Quebec. As for the change in ticket prices at the venues represented by RIDEAU, that has nothing to do with the average ticket price for international productions presented in large arenas, if that's what you're referring to. The increase in ticket prices is much smaller.
What can you do to help us? Personally, I believe that performing arts presenters can embody a kind of stability in Canadian culture. Here, when we welcome artists, whether they're new artists or they're at their first show, for example, there's always guaranteed pay that generally amounts to a few thousand dollars. For them, these are important opportunities to make themselves known while earning significant pay.
The funding for this guaranteed fee comes in part from the funding we get from the government, but it mainly comes from the surpluses we generate when we host more established artists, artists who generate more revenue.
We need stability in funding. More and more studies show that we manage to multiply every dollar we receive from the government. That means that the returns are greater than the dollar we received. I think it's important to say that.
I would like to take this opportunity to mention that, regarding the program to build strong rural communities, it would be important to set aside a minimum threshold for cultural infrastructure. When you're drowning in all the infrastructure needs, it's easy to put culture on the back burner. However, the impact of cultural venues in rural areas and communities is so significant that their funding should have some minimum protection. It's really important.