Released on July 21, 2006
Culture, Youth and Recreation Minister Glenn Hagel today released publicly the final report of the Advisory Committee on the Status of the Artist and outlined the government's response to the report."I would like to thank the committee for their thoughtful work in support of artists and the arts sector," Hagel said. "Based on their broad-based consultations with artists and arts organizations, this committee provided courage and vision to develop a broad strategic approach to building a better future for artists in Saskatchewan and recommended comprehensive actions to achieve those goals."
The Advisory Committee on the Status of the Artist was struck to provide recommendations on a model to support collective bargaining for self-employed artists. Recommendations from the committee support three key goals including: creating an environment where artists are able to engage in viable careers; providing access to thriving markets for artists' products and services; and providing access to information to support and enhance individual and collective efforts to achieve viable careers in Saskatchewan.
"Our arts sector is an important component in building dynamic, vibrant and attractive communities," Hagel said. "I am pleased to announce that the Government of Saskatchewan will be taking the first steps outlined in the committee's report to improve the financial security and predictability for our province's artists."
Legislation will be introduced in the fall that supports required written contracts between artists and engagers with specific elements, including terms regarding intellectual property rights. Legislation for a mechanism that allows artists the ability to engage in collective bargaining, including the establishment of the Saskatchewan Artist and Engagers Commission to review and support these efforts, will also be introduced.
"We are pleased that the province is acting to implement legislation and with their ongoing commitment to examine opportunities that will provide for a better future for Saskatchewan artists, who are integral to the cultural, social and economic fabric of the province," Committee chair Barbara Young said.
The advisory committee's report is available online at www.cyr.gov.sk.ca.
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For More Information, Contact:
| Rick Fink Culture, Youth and Recreation Regina Phone: (306) 787-5781 |