Madam, – Bank of Ireland has always shown great confidence in Irish artists (Robert Ballagh’s letter, October 20th.) In the past the bank acquired the work of emerging Irish artists at a time where such support was critical to their developing careers.
The bank has now decided to realise the value of this investment and to re-invest the proceeds to support a new generation of Irish artists at work in communities around Ireland. As such, the proceeds from the sale of art produced by artists whose careers have prospered will be directed towards artists whose careers are still developing and arts projects at a local community level. We feel that this is clear and tangible evidence of our desire to continue to support the work of Irish artists in a way in which the full community can benefit. – Yours, etc,
Madam, – Robert Ballagh (October 20th) requested that all Irish artists should close all their accounts held in Bank of Ireland.
Mr Ballagh should note that it was a commercial decision to sell off the artwork collection and he should remember it was also a commercial decision to purchase same and I do not remember any letters from him objecting to their purchase.
He should also remember that it is Irish taxpayers that are having to bail out the banks and as an Irish taxpayer I object to it having any art collection whatsoever while I as a taxpayer have a shareholding in the bank.
The Irish Constitution states that all citizens are equal, and if I remember correctly there is no section giving artists special rights. Artists should cease to avail of the artists’ tax exemption. Paying their fair share would then give them the right to have an opinion in relation to how the banks operate (as they would then be shareholders). – Yours, etc,