Mr. Speaker, I would like to draw the attention of my colleagues in the House to the fact that May 18 will mark International Museums Day. The day's theme of the pleasures of discovery underscores the fact that museums are sources of entertainment and discovery.
In Canada, in addition to drawing some 5.5 million visitors a year, our museums are major employers and important educators.
This is why our government is proud to have increased the museums assistance program's budget by $2 million this year and to sponsor Bill C-64, which will institute the indemnification program for travelling exhibitions.
In addition, this summer, Young Canada Works will provide jobs for 800 young people in Canada's heritage facilities.
I join with my colleagues in this House in inviting all Canadians to take advantage of the cultural activities organized across the country to celebrate museums.