On August 28, 2018, Prime Minister Trudeau sent Canada’s new Minister of Canadian Heritage and Multiculturalism, the Honourable Pablo Rodriguez, his Mandate Letter. Rodriguez replaces Mélanie Joly in this post.
The Mandate Letter outlines Trudeau’s expectations for Rodriguez in his new role. In addition to the government’s commitment to grow Canada’s economy, strengthen the middle class and do so through an open and transparent government, the Prime Minister has tasked Rodriguez to strengthen Canada’s multicultural advantage, develop a new federal anti-racism strategy, and enhanced support, including mental health support, for Black Canadians.
Directives that are of particular interest to public libraries include:
- Working with the cultural and creative sectors, and with creators and artists to strengthen the sector.
- Modernize the Broadcasting Act, the Telecommunications Act and the Copyright Act through collaboration with the Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development; in particular, the Letter mentions ensuring high-quality and affordable Internet access for all Canadians.
- Further drive the transition to digital media.
- Implement strategies to support and improved business models to support local journalism.
- Develop an Indigenous Languages Act that will ensure the preservation, protection and revitalization of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis languages.
The full Mandate Letter is available on the Government of Canada web site.