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

OTTAWA, Sept. 8, 2013 /CNW/ - Throughout the years, country music artists have told the stories of heartbreak and triumph that speak to our hearts and souls. Their songs appeal to Canadians from the smallest towns to the largest cities. The Canadian Country Music Association Awards celebrate the achievements of some of Canada's leading country music talent.

Our Government is committed to supporting Canada's creative sector and knows how important music is to our communities, our identity, and our economy. The Canadian music industry generates nearly $3 billion every year in economic activity from sound recordings, concerts, commercial radio, and performing rights. We are proud to support this sector by investing more than $25 million in it every year through the Canada Music Fund.

On behalf of Prime Minister Stephen Harper and the Government of Canada, I commend the Canadian Country Music Association on recognizing our nation's best and brightest stars. I congratulate all of this year's nominees and award winners. To those who participated in Country Music Week, I hope you enjoyed the festivities and all that Edmonton has to offer.

SOURCE: Canadian Heritage