Government salutes musicians ahead of the feast of musicians

Tuesday, November 17, 2009 – The Government of Saint Lucia salutes all Saint Lucian Musicians on the occasion of the Feast of their patron Saint, Saint Cecilia. The Feast of Saint Cecilia is observed on the 22nd of November every year by musicians in Saint Lucia. This is a time when musicians and those who form part of and relate to this expression join in solidarity to celebrate this noble art form.

Government is aware of both the challenges and potential of music as an art form. The Administration is therefore committed to providing the necessary incentives and enabling environment to facilitate the growth and expansion of music as part of an emerging area of the cultural industries.

Prime Minister Stephenson King during his 2009/2010 budget address articulated government’s commitment and intent, when he announced an allocation of EC$1.5 million to assist artistes and musicians. Government through the Office of the Prime Minister, provides benefits to numerous Saint Lucian musicians through the granting of concessions on a case by case basis to cover importation of equipment.

Government’s commitment to the development of music and the arts in general is further expressed through its growing support to the Cultural Development Foundation, which is the lead agency responsible for advancing government’s policy with respect to culture. This year Government increased its allocation to the CDF to EC $2, 282.000 from an allocation for the previous financial year of EC $2, 010.000. Government has also supported the strengthening of its management structure of the CDF through the hiring of an events manager.

In fulfilment of a commitment made during the Prime Minister’s last budget address, government looks forward to collaborating with the CDF in the near future in the staging of a national consultation to chart the way forward for the growth and development of arts, entertainment and culture in Saint Lucia.

Saint Lucians and musical enthusiast are encouraged to follow and participate in the programme of activities for Saint Cecilia’s Day, which is being coordinated through the Cultural Development Foundation.

Government congratulates all musicians as they celebrate the feast of their patron saint, Saint Cecilia and extends best wishes for successful and enjoyable celebrations.

Darnley Lebourne

Press Secretary

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