As some readers may know, Canadians have been subjected to another election campaign and will be going to the polls on Monday, January 23rd. An issue that has not been discussed by any party is arts and culture. CBC has just published an article ‘Arts groups challenge leaders to put culture on the election agenda’. Here’s an interesting quote:

‘Heather Redfern, executive director of the Vancouver-based umbrella group Alliance for Arts and Culture says that compared to other countries, Canada has failed miserably at supporting its artists. “England’s national arts council funds in the amount of $24.36 per capita. Ireland is at $17.91 and Norway is at $10.97.” Currently, the Canada Council receives $4.73 per Canadian. The promised increase would double that amount.’

If you are a Canadian voter and especially if you are working in the arts, do read the article and the summary of where the parties stand on arts and culture issues.

LATER: I just came across Arts News Canada, an interesting site that appears to have more information on these issues. I have bookmarked it to explore in depth beyond the election period. And the Alliance site also has VoteArts2006.