Statement by the Honourable Shelly Glover, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, on the Occasion of the Western Canadian Music Awards Gala

CALGARY, Oct. 6, 2013 /CNW/ - Tonight, the Western Canadian Music Awards celebrated the best of Western Canadian music and featured performances that illustrated the richness of our country's musical talent.

This celebration is part of the 2013 BreakOut West Festival and Conference, which brought together over 60 artists from British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Yukon and the Northwest Territories.

Canada has a dynamic music industry that generates nearly $3 billion every year in economic activity from sound recordings, concerts, commercial radio and performing rights. It creates jobs, generates economic growth in Canadian communities and enriches our lives. Our Government is proud to support this sector by investing nearly $25 million annually though the Canada Music Fund.

On behalf of Prime Minister Stephen Harper and the Government of Canada, I heartily congratulate all this year's award winners and nominees. I would also like to commend the Western Canadian Music Alliance on its efforts to recognize and promote excellence in Canadian music.

SOURCE: Canadian Heritage