6 November 2008

Support for arts good for economy says Tizard

Associate Arts, Culture and Heritage Minister Judith Tizard says Labour's arts policy release today emphasises jobs, continues support for major organisations in film and music and focuses on regional and community development – all of which will help the sector to flourish.

"Labour in government has been strongly committed to creating opportunities in and supporting the Arts, Culture and Heritage sector. Our policies for the future reaffirm this strong commitment," said Judith Tizard.

"Continuing to increase the level of funding and support to the portfolio is important and shows a clear difference between how the major parties view arts, culture and heritage.

Judith Tizard said that only Labour can be trusted to properly support the arts sector.

"National has said that given the chance they would freeze funding, and in real terms that’s a funding cut," she said.

"And in these uncertain economic times, can they really be trusted to not take the razor to the arts budget? – I don’t think so.

"Labour realises that strong support for the arts has many positive flow on effects for New Zealand and our economy; it creates jobs, is hugely important for attracting the tourist dollar, and is a great way for kiwis to celebrate their culture.

"It is especially important that all young people can have confidence in their culture and are able to use the arts to say who they are, that’s why its so important to have strong government support and Prime Ministerial leadership of the arts portfolio," Judith Tizard said.

ENDS

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