Cuts a threat to culture in Temple Bar, says trust

CUTS OF up to 40 per cent in arts funding have raised concern about the future of cultural organisations in Temple Bar, the Temple…

CUTS OF up to 40 per cent in arts funding have raised concern about the future of cultural organisations in Temple Bar, the Temple Bar Cultural Trust has said.

A number of venues and production companies barely earn enough through box office sales to keep their doors open, Dermot McLaughlin, chief executive of Temple Bar Cultural Trust, pointed out yesterday.

Organisations such as children’s centre The Ark, the Gallery of Photography and Filmbase are “under greater pressure than ever to make ends meet”.

Landmark centres such as the Irish Film Institute, the Contemporary Music Centre, Project Arts Centre and Temple Bar Gallery and Studios have had to deal with “significant reductions in public funding this year” he said.

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In response to these cuts arts organisations have come together to create a cultural festival which takes place this weekend.

The Summer Sensation festival begins tomorrow, and organisers expect over 20,000 people to visit workshops for children, outdoor screenings, a free concert by Julie Feeney and other events.

Genevieve Carbery

Genevieve Carbery

Genevieve Carbery is Deputy Head of Audience at The Irish Times