Province supporting culture and tourism industry with $2.2 million investment in new arts venue on Toronto’s waterfront
Ontario is investing $2.2 million to support the launch of The Corleck, a new Irish-Canadian arts venue on Toronto’s downtown waterfront, to celebrate the contributions of the province’s large and longstanding Irish community. This investment through the 2025 Fall Economic Statement supports the government’s plan to protect Ontario by celebrating the province’s heritage, boosting tourism, creating jobs and strengthening the local economy.
“The 4.6 million Canadians of Irish descent have made lasting cultural and economic contributions to Ontario, making our province what it is today,” said Premier Doug Ford. “We’re thrilled to work alongside the Canada Ireland Foundation to bring The Corleck to life, so millions of people can experience Irish-Canadian art, history and culture in a one-of-a-kind setting on Toronto’s waterfront.”
The new venue will feature a main stage and performance space, as well as a café, gallery and museum, meeting and event space and rooftop terrace. At The Corleck, the Canada Ireland Foundation will deliver new cultural experiences that celebrate and share Irish culture and Toronto’s rich immigration history.
“The Corleck offers a beautiful new space on a revitalized urban waterfront, where visitors can experience more of what makes Ontario such a vibrant and welcoming place to live and explore — art, culture, history and connection,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “Our government’s investment in this venue protects cultural assets while driving growth — strengthening tourism, attracting visitors from around the world and supporting good local jobs that keep our province’s economy strong.”
With its central location at Ireland Park and the Bathurst Quay Common, The Corleck will help transform a growing section of Toronto’s waterfront and complement nearby attractions, including Ontario Place, the Ontario Science Centre, Harbourfront Centre and Exhibition Place. Construction on The Corleck is underway, and it is expected to open to the public in spring 2026.
“The Canada Ireland Foundation sincerely thanks the Province of Ontario for its pivotal investment in The Corleck,” said Mark Purdy, Chair of the Canada Ireland Foundation. “This forward-thinking support for the arts is also a meaningful contribution to our shared community. With this funding, we will help transform Toronto’s waterfront, foster new opportunities for jobs and tourism and establish The Corleck as a vibrant gathering place reflecting Ontario’s creativity and cultural richness.”
Ontario’s tourism industry is a cornerstone of the provincial economy, supporting 300,000 jobs and 100,000 businesses in every corner of the province and contributing $33 billion to its GDP. In all, this year, the provincial government is investing over $200 million to protect Ontario’s tourism sector, including support for over 350 festivals and events across the province and grants for regional tourism organizations, agencies and attractions.
