Tonight I witnessed some of Canada’s brightest stars shine at the 2015 JUNO Awards in Hamilton, where I had the pleasure of presenting the award for Breakthrough Artist of the Year. Our artists continue to excel, and some of our most prolific were recognized tonight for their outstanding achievements and contributions to the music industry.

I would like to congratulate Alanis Morissette on her induction into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame. The Ottawa native, who has enchanted music-lovers of all ages for over two decades with her award-winning songs, is very deserving of this recognition.

Our Government recognizes that the Canadian music industry contributes to the vitality of our cultural life and is an important sector of our economy. Our music industry generates nearly $3 billion every year in economic activity from sound recordings, concerts, commercial radio and performing rights.

Our Government is proud to support Canadian artists through the Canada Music Fund, which gives Canadians and the rest of the world better access to Canadian music. In an average year, the Fund helps support over 400 album production projects and 1,100 marketing, touring and showcasing initiatives.

On behalf of the Government of Canada, I commend all of this year's nominees and award winners. I also want to thank the Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences for recognizing the exceptional achievements of Canada's music makers.

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