More on the budget 2011 as it relates to the Arts

e. The diversity of our culture is our strength. We must now leverage our cultural energy to develop a culture based industry for both local and export market. We will partner with the Artists Coalition of Trinidad and Tobago and other interest groups to act on a number of projects. Some of these include: additional funding for the music industry, creating a National Heroes Policy and publishing a Book of Heroes, restoring and recognising Heritage sites to promote destination tourism, as well as creating a National Hall of Fame and a House of Music, amongst other policies. These projects will reflect the rich heritage of our multicultural society.

f. The international fashion industry is a multi-billion dollar business. We must be prepared to enter this market. To do so we shall encourage our local fashion industry to market its strengths abroad. Trinidad and Tobago is known for creative design, expressed in carnival and other cultural and religious festivals. We must use this strength to build a thriving design industry that can compete internationally. We will support these groups to market their products abroad.

g. We will review the Trinidad and Tobago Film Company and the Trinidad and TobagoEntertainment Company to ensure that their mandates are consistent with their operationsand financial management. We will take steps to ensure that these companies areentrepreneurial and commercial entities. In addition, the National Arts Scholarshipprogramme will be expanded.