Stephens Review Raises Curtain on New Era for Welsh Arts - Burnham

12.02.00pm GMT Wed 29th Nov 2006

Eleanor Burnham AM has today welcomed the findings of a major review of the arts in Wales, which has proposed radical changes to ensure the long term excellence of arts in Wales.

The review was carried out following the government's move to bring the Welsh National Opera, BBC National Orchestra, Academi, Diversions Dance Group, Clwyd Theatr Cymru in Mold and the Welsh language Theatr Genedlaethol "in house". This decision would have left the Arts Council Wales, currently responsible for awarding funding to the big six among other smaller organisations, with vastly reduced powers.

Ms Burnham, Welsh Liberal Democrat Culture Spokesperson, said: "The findings of this review make for interesting reading. I hope Alun Pugh and the Assembly Government will take these findings on board and will now view the Arts Council as a partner and not as a servant.

"This review has vindicated the Welsh Liberal Democrat view on Welsh arts and their funding; that political decisions should be kept at arms length of artistic considerations.

"In my evidence to the panel, I called for greater co-ordination between the Arts Council, Assembly and Local Government. I am pleased that this has been taken on board by the panel.

"Local Authorities' provision and arts in education is a vital link which has previously been overlooked. When it comes to making changes, it is a free and independent Arts Council, or Development Board, that should work with the government to achieve their mutually agreed aims.

"The challenge now is for the Minister to accept these recommendations and find the money to make them work."

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