Sir, - Historically, FAS CE schemes have been the mechanism for staffing many of the arts organisations around the country. This mechanism for training long-term unemployed people, while not ideal for most organisations, did provide valuable experience to participants while enabling many arts organisations to open their doors. Now, due to the welcome drop in unemployment, the role of FAS is changing and, here in Dublin there have been large cutbacks in funding this scheme.
The Arts Council is funding programming that, without staff, will soon be undeliverable. At a time when access to and participation in the arts has been developed so that a very broad number of our citizens have direct contact with the arts, it is unfortunate that the point of contact between the creative artist and the public is under threat. The cultural vibrancy of Irish society is much touted abroad and contributes to a very positive image of Ireland. Without professionally operated venues where will these expectant visitors experience this cultural vibrancy?
It would take a far smaller investment by the Department of Finance, through the Department of Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands, to compensate for the loss of this major, if indirect, subsidy to the arts. Lest Mr McCreevy fears fiscal rectitude is at risk, the investment is quantifiable in terms of cultural tourism and inward investment and will also contribute to quality of life experience within Irish society.
A solution is urgently required. - Yours, etc, Norah Norton,
Director, Temple Bar Gallery & Studios, Dublin 2.