4 million pounds cash injection for arts sector
Communities Minister Carál Ní Chuilín announces the reopening of the Creative Support Fund.
A new life line has been given to the arts sector in Northern Ireland after Communities Minister, Carál Ní Chuilín, announced the reopening of the Creative Support Fund.
The scheme was originally opened on 27th April but according to the Department it was heavily oversubscribed.
Earlier in the year the £1.5 million pounds emergency funding was allocated for artists and small to medium sized organisations.
Now, the new money will help award grants of up to £5,000 pounds.
It will go towards supporting the arts, creative industries and cultural sector.
The Department hopes this will help bolster freelancers, performers, prevent the loss of arts organisations and give priority to those who have lost opportunities to use their skills.
The organisational strand will reopen for new applications, from small and medium sized organisations in August and the maximum award available is £25,000.
Priority will be given to those who have been unable to access other forms of financial support from Government or other sources.
The Minister said: “Today I am announcing further details on the opening of a £4 million funding package designed to help bolster freelancers and performers and prevent the loss of arts organisations.
“Covid-19 has brought devastating impact for musicians, freelancers, craftspeople and performers. This additional funding provides much needed breathing space for individuals and organisations working in the field of arts, creative industries, Irish language and Ulster Scots cultural centres.”
Ms Ní Chuilín explained: “This package is designed to help sustain individuals and organisations and enable them to better respond to the new circumstances.
“The funds will be administered on behalf of my Department by the Arts Council and I have asked that the application process be kept simple and the turnaround time be kept short.
“I am grateful to the Arts Council for responding so swiftly and I want to acknowledge the collaborative work that continues to take place in support of the sector.
“Further details will appear on the ACNI website over the coming days.
“There is a long and difficult road ahead for arts and culture organisations and music venues.”
She concluded: “This interim support package for individuals and organisations large and small will act as a bridge for the next few months until the Executive has an opportunity to consider and agree the priorities for allocating the £33m significant support package for arts, culture and heritage.”