Snow White pantomine at the Millennium Forum last Christmas but it has been cancelled for this year over COVID
Speaking to Communities Minister in the Assembly this week, Mr Durkan said implementation of a funding scheme must be without delay.
Said the Foyle MLA: “I took the opportunity this week to raise once more on the floor of the Assembly, the need for urgent support for the Art Sector.
“On numerous occasions I’ve sought an update on the £33 million funding allocation from both the Finance and Communities Ministers.
“I am yet to receive further detail on exactly when and how this money will be distributed.
“I will continue to bang the drum for the Sector; as even before the imposition of lockdown their venues, practitioners and patrons felt the impact of this pandemic.
“Continue venue closures means that their ability to generate an income is non-existent.
“I’ve been assured that the department’s bid for the £33 million will be discussed this week or next week at the latest.
“This funding was received in July and should have been treated with a degree of immediacy.”
Mr Durkan added: “Getting the money into the Department is one thing, getting it out is another.
“It is crucial the Minister and her officials now liaise with the Sector and relevant bodies, to design a scheme that will ensure this money gets to where it is needed in the quickest way possible.”
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