Statement by the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, on the Occasion of the Western Canadian Music Awards

REGINA, Sept. 30, 2012 /CNW/ - The Western Canadian Music Awards connect Canadians through a celebration of our passion for music and of the best talent Western Canada has to offer.

Since 2002, the Awards have celebrated the finest recording artists in all genres 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.

On behalf of Prime Minister Stephen Harper and the Government of Canada, I would like to offer my sincere congratulations to all of this year's award winners and nominees. We are proud to support, through the Canada Music Fund, the Western Canadian Music Alliance's efforts to recognize and promote excellence in Canadian music.

SOURCE: Canadian Heritage

(Media only), please contact:

Sébastien Gariépy
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage
and Official Languages
819-997-7788