10/07/2007

Deputy First Minister announces Art’s Council funding

Project funding of £570,000 has been announced as part of the Arts Council’s Re-Imaging Communities Programme.

The Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness said the money will be split between 34 projects across Northern Ireland and has been given to community groups who applied for funding under the programme to facilitate the creation of vibrant and attractive shared spaces.

Speaking at the event, held in the Ormeau Baths Gallery, Mr McGuinness said: “People want and deserve a stable, inclusive and tolerant society, where people can work and play together regardless of community or ethnic background or their religious or political beliefs.

“Initiatives such as the Re-Imaging Communities Programme play an important role in achieving that goal.”

The Deputy First Minister also praised the “wonderful examples” of creative talent in the province “which is just waiting for an opportunity to express itself.”

“The arts have a very important role to play in delivering the transformation of our society. The successful projects here today are an essential part of building a better future for all our children,” he concluded.

The Re-Imaging Communities Programme was established by the Arts Council in response to the Government’s Shared Future agenda to help all communities in urban and rural areas to focus on positive ways to express who they are and what culture means to them artistically and creatively.

(JM)

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