The Honourable Elmer MacFadyen, Minister of Community and Cultural Affairs today announced administrative changes to recognize the importance of both culture and heritage and sport and recreation to the province.
Effective today, the former division of Culture, Heritage, Recreation and Sport will become two separate divisions: a sport and recreation division and a culture, heritage and libraries division. Brian McFeely, manager of sport and recreation will assume the role of director of the new Sport and Recreation Division. Harry Holman will maintain responsibility for culture, heritage and libraries.
"I am confident that these changes will have a positive impact on the sport and recreation sectors as well as cultural, heritage and libraries in Prince Edward Island," says Minister MacFadyen. "I would like to congratulate both Mr. McFeely and Mr. Holman on their new responsibilities. I am confident that the knowledge and dedication that they have demonstrated in the past will continue to assist in the advancement of these two sectors."
In the past several months, significant initiatives have been launched in both sport and culture, and this change will allow for an increased emphasis on plans for the future. Government's new Sport Strategy and the new Cultural Policy position both of these sectors as important areas for Prince Edward Island.
The delivery of sport and recreation programs across the province depends on the participation of a number of partners at the local, municipal, provincial and national levels. The Sport Strategy provides a framework for all partners to advance sport in the province. There is mounting evidence to suggest that physical activity plays a key role in the health and well being of Islanders. Through sport, recreation and active living, communities and Islanders are taking an active role in advancing their health.
The Cultural Policy identifies government's goals and principles and establishes the role of government with regard to culture in the province. It identifies the importance of culture for both its social and financial benefits and outlines government's commitment to protecting and promoting our unique cultures.
Today's announcement demonstrates government's continued work toward the advancement of these two very important sectors in Prince Edward Island.
"The future represents a number of challenges and opportunities, and I believe that the separation of these responsibilities will enable the two divisions to focus more on their respective issues and better manage available opportunities," says Minister MacFadyen. "It is my firm belief that these changes will offer increased benefits to Islanders."
Changes to the administration of the division are effective immediately.