Kelly Calls for Arts Plan Legislation

Cllr. Nicky Kelly has said that he is seriously concerned and shares the anxiety of many people throughout the County because of the Government's failure to legislate the 2002-06 Arts Plan. Cllr. Kelly has called on Minister for Arts Sile Devalera to ensure that one of Co. Wicklow's leading Arts and Cultural Centre's, the Tinahely Courthouse Centre, will not be forced to severely restrict its planned programme of events, and face drastic cut-backs in its educational and community services in the coming months because of the Government's delay to implement the new Arts Plan.

Cllr. Kelly said that the Tinahely Centre currently operates on an extremely tight budget, and has already suffered from the withdrawal by the Government of its Fas Community Scheme. Cllr. Kelly stated that he has been in contact with the Arts Council and with the Minister to express his unease that many Arts and Cultural Organisations, including the Tinahely Arts Centre will suffer because of Government procrastination.

Furthermore, he has highlighted the need for long-term and appropriate investment for many locally based community Arts and Cultural groups throughout the county who face difficult financial obstacles while endeavouring to implement and develop important creative and social outlets and resources. Finally, Cllr. Kelly reiterated his call for proper and multi-annual funding for the Tinahely Courthouse Arts Centre to enable continuation of its innovate and excellent service to the artistic and wider community.

Other arts centres in the Garden County, including the Arklow Community Arts Centre and Bray's Signal Arts centre share the Tinahely Centre's financial difficulties.