Canadian Heritage committee  If I can jump in on the Ireland example, they just announced a few months ago they will be providing $28 million to artists and entertainers hurt by the pandemic through a basic income program. Artists are receiving approximately $400 a week for three years and also venues are re

Canadian Heritage committee  I very much echo what Michael just said. I'm very concerned about labour market issues. We don't have hard data yet, but there's a lot of anecdotal evidence that there is an exodus happening in the arts sector. People are leaving for more predictable work, reliable work, better p

Canadian Heritage committee  We do find that people want to continue to have masking and social distancing. These are key for people's comfort level. But a large percentage still want to see a lower case count of COVID. That will determine when they feel comfortable returning. In terms of being able to star

Canadian Heritage committee  I'm glad you're aware of our artsvest program. It is a national mentorship training and matching fund program. Annually, more than 350 organizations from across the country participate in that. They receive one-on-one mentorship, group training and peer training. They're also pai

Canadian Heritage committee  Thank you very much. Greetings, Madam Chair and members of the committee. It's a pleasure to be here today. I am the president and CEO of Business and Arts, a charitable organization that has existed for over 40 years with a national mandate to work in partnership with arts lea

Canadian Heritage committee  —of crisis situations to affect the arts. That's it. Thank you very much.