Statement by the Honourable Shelly Glover, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, on the Western Canadian Music Awards


OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - Oct. 5, 2014) -

The Western Canadian Music Awards left a lasting impression tonight as Canadians recognized outstanding achievements in the industry and moved to the rhythms of Western Canadian music.

Hosted this year in Winnipeg, the Awards Gala was the crowning event of the BreakOut West Festival, which showcased dozens of talented artists from British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Yukon and the Northwest Territories.

Our Government recognizes that music contributes to the vitality of our cultural life and is an important sector of our economy. The Canadian music industry generates nearly $3 billion annually in economic activity. In Budget 2014, we permanently renewed all funding for Canadian music through the Canada Music Fund. On average, each year the $24.6-million Fund supports the production of more than 400 albums and 1,100 marketing, touring, and showcase projects.

On behalf of Prime Minister Stephen Harper and the Government of Canada, I would like to offer my sincere congratulations to all of this year's award winners and nominees. I would also like to commend the Western Canadian Music Alliance for its efforts to recognize and promote excellence in Canadian music.

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Contact Information:

Marisa Monnin
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage
and Official Languages
819-997-7788