Remarks by the Deputy Prime Minister on growing communities and investing $10 million in Toronto’s Harbourfront Centre

June 23, 2024 – Toronto, Ontario 

Good afternoon.

I would like to begin by acknowledging that we are gathered on the traditional territories of many nations, including the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, the Anishinaabeg, the Chippewa, the Haudenosaunee, and the Wendat.

I am so glad to be home in Toronto today, and I am especially glad to be here at Toronto’s beautiful waterfront with Tenio Evangelista and with the great team at the Harbourfront Centre.

Our government is delivering fairness for every generation. And we are investing in Canada’s arts and culture sector because that is an important part of our plan. We know that arts and culture make our communities more vibrant, while supporting the economy at the same time.

The Harbourfront Centre is very much a part of Toronto’s—and Canada’s—amazing arts and culture scene.

It is Toronto’s waterfront home to unique programming ranging from dancing and theatre shows, to writing festivals, to art exhibitions. It’s a place for family and friends to gather and it’s a place that brings people to our city’s beautiful waterfront while also taking advantage of all the great things our city has to offer.

But, as a Toronto MP, I know that the Harbourfront Centre is facing some significant challenges. Like many arts and culture organizations, COVID was really hard, and the pandemic took a real toll here at the Harbourfront Centre. It’s been hard to recover and get back to the level of activity you had before 2021.

Our government recognizes that. And we know that we need you to come roaring back so that Toronto and our country can come roaring back.

And that’s why, in this year’s budget, we stepped up.

Our government is investing $10 million over two years to support the Harbourfront Centre’s ability to complete critical repairs so you can continue welcoming visitors from across Toronto, Ontario, Canada, and around the world.  

The Harbourfront Centre is such an important Toronto institution. It’s also a key economic and cultural asset for the city, attracting millions of visitors every year. With this funding, we are helping the Harbourfront Centre to thrive for many years to come and to be a part of the lives of millions and millions of people in Toronto, in Ontario, and across the country.

We’re making forward-looking investments like this one—because we know that vibrant communities, where Canadians want to live, work, and raise their families, are a key part of ensuring fairness for every generation.

Thank you.