The Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure (DCAL) has been called on to invest in a permanent entertainment venue in Derry.
The call comes from Emmet Doyle, SDLP election candidate in the Moor Ward, after it was confirmed DCAL has invested £63,000 in a temporary venue in the city to host events such as the City of Derry Jazz Festival.
Mr Doyle said it was time Derry had a permanent entertainment venue worthy of the huge amount of local talent and the big name acts the city attracts.
He said DCAL must invest in a venue in the city for the long term.
Emmet Doyle.
Mr Doyle said while the investment in a temporary venue was welcome, he said Derry “deserves more.
He said: “While this is to be welcomed, people that I have spoken to have said they believe the city deserves more than temporary entertainment provision.
“DCAL must explore how to ensure resources are found for a large scale entertainment venue in this city, fit for the wealth of talent in this city; fit for the people who want to enjoy that talent and fit for the many entertainers that want to perform in Derry.”
He concluded: “The Venue showed just exactly what this city can do and I believe we can grow that. A long term, permanent venue would only serve to build on that.”
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