Reaction in the arts community to new money in the federal budget has been muted. Relief over funding for infrastructure and training programs mixes with disappointment over the lack of support for touring productions and individual working artists.

The 2009 budget includes two-year funding of $60 million to support infrastructure-related costs for cultural and heritage institutions; an increase of $20 million over the next two years and $13 million per year thereafter for Heritage Canada's National Arts Training Contribution Program; $28.6 million over the next two years to the Canada New Media Fund and $14.3 million annually thereafter; and $100 million over two years for marquee festivals and events that promote tourism. In addition, the government will invest $25 million in the new Canada Prizes for the Arts and Creativity, which will provide cash awards to international artists.

Amir Ali Alibhai, executive director of the Alliance for Arts and Culture, said he was “glad there was the money for the arts and for culture” in the new federal budget but added: “I was a little bit disappointed not to see funding there for touring—stuff to replace the programs that were cut [Trade Routes and PromArt], in terms of touring Canadian artists abroad.”

Heather Redfern, executive director of the Cultch, reflected his concerns. “I was unhappy that they aren't replacing the money for the international programs.”¦That's really disappointing, because it's so backward-thinking to think that we don't need to do that.” Redfern did say, however, that she was planning to apply for infrastructure-related funding to help with the Cultch's renovation costs.

On the national level, both CINARS (International Conference for the Performing Arts) and CARFAC (Canadian Artists' Representation) have expressed concern over the budget. “Why invest $25 million in Canada Prizes for the Arts and Creativity”¦while our own internationally acclaimed artists are on the edge of bankruptcy?” CINARS asked in a news release.

April Britsky, CARFAC executive director, told the Straight the organization had hoped to see income averaging, tax exemption on copyright royalties, and extension of Employment Insurance to the self-employed in the budget.