Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced Friday that the federal government will provide $500 million to the Department of Canadian Heritage to support the arts, culture and sports sectors during the COVID-19 pandemic.

During his daily address, Trudeau said the funds will support both creators and businesses that are experiencing financial issues as a result of the outbreak of the novel coronavirus.

“Our government will provide $500M to Heritage Canada to support the artists, creators and the rising stars of our sporting associations. Through this funding, people will be able to receive wage support, and organizations will have access to funding if they are experiencing liquidity problems,” said Trudeau.

Details about how the funding will be administered, and exactly who is eligible, had not been confirmed at press time. Playback Daily will update this story as more details become available.

“People who work in the arts, culture and sports sectors share their passion with us and allow us to dream. And these days, when we’re home and isolated, they make us feel a little bit less alone. These are only some of the reasons we have to be there for them, as they’re there for us,” he added.

In a tweet sent shortly after the Prime Minister’s address, Canadian Heritage Minister Steven Guilbeault said the $500 million would provide “more targeted financial help” as companies in the arts, culture and sport space navigate the economic crisis caused by the pandemic.

Elsewhere, the Prime Minister said 7.5 million payments have been made already through the Canada Emergency Relief Benefit (CERB), which began administering payments early last week.

More to follow…

Keep up with Playback‘s ongoing coverage of COVID-19 here.