Statement by the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, on the Death of Sam Sniderman

OTTAWA, Sept. 24, 2012 /CNW/ - It was with great sadness that I learned of the death of Sam Sniderman.

Best known as the founder of the renowned Canadian record store chain Sam the Record Man, Mr. Sniderman was a keen fan of Canadian music and a strong advocate for Canadian content broadcast regulations and the creation of the Juno Awards.

Born in Toronto, Mr. Sniderman started selling records in his brother's store, Sniderman Radio Sales and Service, in 1937. In 1959, he opened a second store at his famous Yonge Street location in Toronto, and in 1969, he started franchising the store. Although officially retired in 2000, he remained an active participant in the Canadian music industry.

On October 20, 1976, Mr. Sniderman was invested into the Order of Canada in recognition of founding the Recordings Archive Library at the University of Toronto, now the largest of its kind in Canada. He will be remembered for his constant support of Canadian talent and concern for the preservation of our cultural heritage.

On behalf of the Government of Canada, I would like to offer my sincere condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Sam Sniderman.

SOURCE: Canadian Heritage