Purpose of the Ministry
Bringing together several program areas essential to the health of our economy and communities, the Ministry of Tourism, Sport and the Arts touches the lives of all British Columbians. In showcasing the natural beauty of B.C., celebrating our culture, promoting healthy living, honouring our heritage and building for the future, the Ministry plays an important role in improving the social and economic fabric of the province.
British Columbia offers an extraordinary range of activities and destinations for its residents and visitors to experience. The Ministry helps co-ordinate the tourism-related efforts of individuals, small and medium-sized businesses, large corporations, local and provincial public sector organizations, volunteer agencies, and all levels of government throughout the province. Motivated by the Premier’s challenge to double tourism revenues by 2015, the Ministry supports such growing economic drivers as resort development while protecting and conserving B.C.’s heritage and archaeology. The Tourism Action Plan outlines the actions that government and its agencies will take to meet this challenge.
The sport and recreation sectors generate significant economic and social benefits for B.C. communities. The Ministry supports a wide range of sport and recreation initiatives, fostering the economic contribution of these sectors, and enabling British Columbians of all ages, abilities and aspirations to reap the health and social benefits of physical activity. The lead for all ministries promoting healthy living through ActNow BC, the Ministry is responsible for encouraging physical activity, healthy food choices, living tobacco-free, and making healthy choices in pregnancy. The Ministry also promotes domestic and international sports event hosting and sport tourism in the province, as well as building lasting capacity in the volunteer sector.
The arts, culture and creative industries are instrumental in making B.C. an attractive place to live, work and visit. The Ministry works to develop the province’s creative economy and workforce. In partnership with the B.C. Arts Council, the Ministry supports individual artists and arts organizations. The B.C. Film Commission promotes B.C.’s locations, infrastructure, and skilled labour to domestic and international producers of film and television productions.
The year 2008 marks the 150th anniversary of the founding of British Columbia as a Crown colony. Through BC150 Years, the Ministry will be leading the way in engaging local communities, other ministries and Crown agencies, the federal government, non-profit organizations, First Nations and the private sector to celebrate this significant milestone — 150 years of achievements, cultural diversity and community strength.
The Ministry accomplishes this important work by collaborating with key partners and associations in the tourism, sport and recreation, and arts and culture sectors. A number of its programs are delivered through third parties, including private and not-for-profit organizations and communities, while others are delivered through regional service delivery centres. Government’s strategic investments in the six Crown corporations governed by the Ministry are essential to achieving the Ministry’s goals.
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