LISTEN: Grant applications open for struggling arts sector

By Q Radio News

Members of Northern Ireland's struggling arts sector can now apply for funding from a £7.7million covid-19 support package.

The 'Stability and Renewal Programme for Organisations' is aimed at helping the industry respond to the impacts of the pandemic, including help with re-opening and adapting services.

Grants of up to 5 hundred thousand pounds are available for groups. 

Noireen McKinney from the Arts Council here welcomed the cash boost, saying its "absolutely necessary": 

Applications will remain open until the 27th of November.  

Communities minister Carál Ní Chuilín said: “This funding aims to not only save many organisations from collapse, and to retain specialists within the sector, but to help them adapt to the challenges ahead.

''I am determined that this sector will emerge stronger than ever and that it will also be fit-for-purpose to take on the huge challenge of helping those who need help the most.”

Roisín McDonough, Chief Executive, Arts Council of Northern Ireland said,  “The Arts Council is pleased to open the Stability and Renewal Programme for Organisations today and thanks the Minister for making this funding available.  

''This financial aid is very much needed to strengthen the durability of the wider sector in these difficult times.  

''Our research clearly evidences that more funding is needed to help arts and cultural businesses re-open and flourish over the next few years, so that they may continue to contribute fully to our economy and to our society.

“We already have had two rounds of funding to provide much-needed financial support to cultural organisations which had been decimated under the Covid-19 lock down.

''The closure of theatres and venues, the cancellation of festivals and events and the disappearance of live audiences has been devastating to those who work within these sectors, those who helped drive the regeneration of our local economy.

''This new funding programme for organisations opening today is absolutely necessary.

“Meanwhile, the Arts Council continues to provide expert advice to our partners in government, making the case for the needs of a sector, still on its knees and facing significant financial challenges as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.”