Toronto, ON — The Government of Ontario is investing $2.2 million to help launch The Corleck, a new Irish-Canadian arts and cultural venue set to open on Toronto’s waterfront in spring 2026. The project, spearheaded by the Canada Ireland Foundation, aims to celebrate the province’s deep Irish roots while bolstering tourism, job creation, and the arts sector.
The funding forms part of Ontario’s 2025 Fall Economic Statement, reflecting the province’s plan to protect and promote its heritage assets while supporting economic growth through culture and tourism.
Honouring Irish Heritage and Strengthening Cultural Ties
Ontario’s Premier Doug Ford highlighted the significance of the Irish community’s contribution to the province’s development.
“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 arts venue will feature a main performance stage, café, gallery and museum space, meeting rooms, and a rooftop terrace overlooking the waterfront. Designed as both a creative hub and community space, The Corleck will showcase exhibitions, live performances, and events that honour Irish-Canadian history while connecting diverse audiences through shared cultural experiences.
Building Ontario’s Cultural Economy
The province’s Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming, Stan Cho, said the project aligns with the government’s broader strategy to invest in tourism infrastructure that sustains local economies.
“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 Minister Cho. “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.”
Located at Ireland Park and the Bathurst Quay Common, The Corleck will occupy the former Canada Malting Company administrative building, transforming the heritage site into a modern cultural landmark. Once completed, it will complement nearby attractions such as Ontario Place, Harbourfront Centre, the Ontario Science Centre, and Exhibition Place.
Partnership and Collaboration
The Canada Ireland Foundation, which has led the initiative, praised the province’s support as instrumental in bringing the long-planned venue to life.
“The Canada Ireland Foundation sincerely thanks the Province of Ontario for its pivotal investment in The Corleck,” said Mark Purdy, Chair of the 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.”
The project has also received funding from the Government of Canada, the City of Toronto, the Government of Ireland, and private donors, representing a shared commitment to preserving cultural heritage through public and private collaboration.
Leaders Applaud the Investment
Prominent political and community leaders have welcomed the province’s decision, noting that The Corleck will stand as both a cultural institution and a symbol of Ontario’s global connections.
“For centuries, the Irish diaspora has helped build Ontario’s communities. Through our government’s investment in The Corleck, we’re attracting new tourism, enhancing our waterfront and ensuring that Irish eyes are always smiling,” said Caroline Mulroney, Minister of Francophone Affairs and President of the Treasury Board.
“The Canada Ireland Foundation has done outstanding work to recognize the contributions of the Irish to our history, our culture and our sense of community,” added Todd McCarthy, Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks. “That is why our government is proud to support the foundation’s efforts through this investment in The Corleck: a monument that will stand as a place of pride, culture and enduring friendship between Ontario and Ireland while inspiring new generations to carry that spirit forward.”
Peter Bethlenfalvy, Minister of Finance, said: “With centuries of history connecting Ontario and Ireland, the bond between our peoples runs deep. Through our government’s milestone $2.2 million investment in The Corleck, we’re not only protecting the lasting contributions of the Irish in shaping our province: we’re building a place where culture, community and shared heritage can continue to thrive for generations to come.”
Olivia Chow, Mayor of Toronto, also praised the collaboration: “I applaud the Province of Ontario for investing in The Corleck and supporting Toronto’s lively Irish community, a community that has always been close to my heart. This City-owned heritage building, brought to life through our partnership with the Canada Ireland Foundation, will bring arts, culture and connection to the waterfront.”
William Peat, Executive Director of the Canada Ireland Foundation, said: “The province’s investment in The Corleck recognizes the vital role that arts and culture play in building strong, connected communities. This investment allows us to welcome artists, audiences and visitors from across Ontario and beyond to The Corleck, a space where stories are shared, partnerships are formed and the spirit of cultural exchange thrives.”
Cultural Investment with Economic Impact
Ontario’s tourism and culture sector remains a vital pillar of the provincial economy, supporting 300,000 jobs and 100,000 businesses while contributing $33 billion to the province’s GDP. In 2025, the government is investing more than $200 million in tourism initiatives, including funding for over 350 festivals and cultural events across Ontario.
When The Corleck opens its doors in 2026, it is expected to become both a celebration of Irish heritage and a driver of economic activity on Toronto’s dynamic waterfront — blending history, art, and community into a lasting tribute to the province’s multicultural identity.
