ARTS PROFESSIONS ACT WILL SUPPORT SASKATCHEWAN’S ART AND CULTURE SECTOR

The Government of Saskatchewan is fulfilling its promise to support written contracts and protect the intellectual property of artists by moving forward today on The Arts Professions Act. Legislation on the bill was given first reading in the Legislative Assembly today.

"The Government of Saskatchewan is committed to creating an environment in which the artist is able to thrive and succeed," Tourism, Parks, Culture and Sport Minister Christine Tell said.

The Arts Professions Act recognizes the contribution of artists to the cultural, social, economic and educational life of the province. The Act stipulates the use of written contracts between professional artists and engagers with clearly defined elements contained within the contracts. It also provides a definition of a professional artist.

"Today's legislation will benefit Saskatchewan artists and help protect their professional integrity," Saskatchewan Arts Board chair Ken Sagal said. "The Arts Professions Act assists Saskatchewan artists in furthering their careers and recognizes the valuable contribution of professional artists to the cultural and economic prosperity of this province."

"We believe that the encouragement of better business practices is a key part of supporting the arts and business sector," Tell said. "The bottom line is that this legislation will benefit the careers of individual artists and contribute to a successful sector in a thriving Saskatchewan.

In addition to today's legislation, the Ministry of Tourism, Parks, Culture and Sport is also developing a cultural policy framework and action plan slated to roll out in early 2009.

The Arts Professions Act is scheduled to come into effect in June 2010.

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For more information, contact:

Janet Peters
Tourism, Parks, Culture and Sport
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4967
Email: janet.peters@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-533-4909