moved that Bill S-234, an act to amend the Parliament of Canada Act (Parliamentary Visual Artist Laureate), be read the first time.
I rise today to table Bill S-234, an act to amend the Parliament of Canada Act (Parliamentary Visual Artist Laureate). I would like to begin by acknowledging the work of Senator Bovey, from my home province of Manitoba, and Senator Moore of Nova Scotia, in the creation of this bill and thank them for their work in moving it forward in the other chamber.
This bill gives parliamentarians the opportunity to send a clear message to Canada's artistic community that we appreciate and recognize the importance of its work not only to our country's culture, but also to our society's economy.
Furthermore, the position of an artist laureate would enable artists from all regions of Canada and of different backgrounds to have a national platform to showcase their work. Arts and culture is one of the most powerful tools we have for making social change. This bill celebrates artists and recognizes their importance to this great country of Canada.
(Motion agreed to and bill read the first time)