Canada’s independent music scene, particularly smaller clubs and live venues, are facing potentially devastating fees for bringing international musicians to their venues.
Changes to federal regulations surrounding foreign workers entering Canada came into effect in July, but the news made waves throughout social media yesterday (August 28) when journalist Mike Bell of the Calgary Herald newspaper raised the issue.
Bell wrote the new regulations “will double, triple or even quadruple the cost of bringing in international artists to perform in bars, restaurants or coffee shops”.
In the article he quotes Spencer Brown, the longtime booker for downtown Calgary venue “The Palomino’ “They are targeting the little guy, they’re targeting small venues, they’re targeting small business,” he says. “So, me, as the promoter at The Palomino, which will hold 200 people at the best of times, is paying out $425 per band member whereas a guy from a huge promotions company putting on a 20,000-seater for Elton John in the stadium is tax free.”
“Me bringing in (American act) Redd Kross (Aug. 31) is not going to devastate Calgary’s garage rock scene. It’s not going to put anyone out of work. It’s going to inspire people to pick up a guitar and put out an album.”
A change.org petition suggests: “With this inflation of upfront fees associated to bringing an international artist to Canada, the government is taking a clear stance of desired control over a culture that blossoms with freedom and deserve support rather than increased financial responsibility.”
An organizer of the petition commented on the petition page that in one day: “We have exceeded every expectation of support on this petition, and there is no signs of slowing down.” He called for people to keep up the pressure.
On his Twitter feed @kenneyjason Canada’s Minister of Employment, Social Development & Multiculturalism, Jason Kenney defended the fees.
More information:
Mike Bell/Calgary Herald – New fees for international touring musicians threaten smaller clubs and live venues across Canada – here
change.org petition – Canadian Government to Charge International Touring Artists $425 per Band Member per Performance in Canada, Previously A 1 Time $150 Fee – here
CBC News – Indie musicians cry foul over foreign worker fees – here
Red Kross website – reddkross.com
The Palomino – www.thepalomino.ca
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