September 5, 2008

NEWS

Ontario is helping the City of Clarence-Rockland build a new performance space for cultural events.

The province is investing $464,155 to help the municipality purchase furnishings and equipment for a 500-seat performance hall. The hall will be part of the recreational and cultural complex that is currently under development. This complex will help preserve and promote the French culture and support new bilingual cultural programming for the residents of Clarence-Rockland and the surrounding rural community.

The funding is part of the Rural Economic Development Program which invests in community-based projects in three priority areas:
•Improved access to health care services.
•Revitalized communities and downtowns.
•Enhanced skills training.

QUOTES

"The sport and cultural complex will become the centre for art and culture in Clarence-Rockland and the surrounding community. It will allow the community to promote music, art and culture with better access to new facilities," said Glengarry-Prescott-Russell MPP Jean-Marc LaLonde.

"This is a very exciting announcement for the City of Clarence-Rockland. This funding will help us in giving our population the cultural facilities it deserves. It will also expose our youth to the different components of culture and might encourage them to pursue career opportunities in related fields," said Clarence-Rockland Mayor Richard LaLonde.

QUICK FACTS

•Since 2003, Ontario has invested $60.1 million in 183 projects through the Rural Economic Development Program.

LEARN MORE

Find out more about how Ontario is Ontario is helping the Arts.

Learn more about the Rural Economic Development Program.

Discover more about the City of Clarence-Rockland.

For more information contact:
Sherry Persaud, Minister's Office, 416-326-6439
Brent Ross, Communications Branch, 416-326-9342