The Draft Budget does little for parity in arts funding - Northern Ireland will still get around half per head of what is enjoyed in GB and Ireland. Arts groups, activities, artists and arts organisations cannot survive if something is not done. It is time to show how vital the arts are across NI and demand that MLA’s increase the arts budget.
Encourage all your staff, Board, volunteers and friends to send a submission as individuals as well as making one on behalf of any group or organisation you are involved in.
THREE THINGS TO DO:
1) Attend the Rally - Monday 10th December 10.30am, Stormont
All arts groups, artists and those who care about our creative future are called to gather at Carson’s statue at Stormont at 10.30am to head up the steps for 11am where a letter will be handed over to MLAs.
2) Attend one of the local official consultations on the programme and budget
All run 7pm to 9.00pm.
Thursday 29 November, Guildhall, Londonderry
Monday 3 December, The Clinton Centre, Enniskillen
Wednesday 5 December, Spires Conference Centre, Belfast
Tuesday 11 December, Southern Education and Library Board Headquarters, Armagh.
Register for these with OFMDFM on
Telephone: 028 9092 0093
Fax: 028 9052 2526
Email: pfgbudget@nics.gov.uk
www.keepourartsalive.com
http://www.artscouncil-ni.org//news/2007/new27112007.htm gives you key points to make at these meeting
3) Send in a response to the formal consultation about the budget
Every submission counts - it’s the official way to make your voice heard.
Go to http://www.caf.ie/artscampaign/emailer.asp for an instant email to send, or compile your own using the template at http://www.keepourartsalive.com/SampleLetter.doc
Encourage all your staff, Board, volunteers and friends to send a submission as individuals as well as making one on behalf of any group or organisation you are involved in.
The consultation period closes 4 January 2008.
Responses should be sent to arrive by the closing date to:
E-mail:pfgbudget@nics.gov.uk
Melanie McGinnis
Economic Policy Unit
OFMDFM
Rm E5.22
Castle Buildings
Stormont Belfast
BT4 3SR
Telephone:(028) 9052 0093
