B.C. New Democrats are lamenting another cut to the arts, this time to the long-established Kamloops Festival of the Performing Arts.
Critic Spencer Chandra Herbert called a recent announcement by Minister of Housing and Social Development Rich Coleman the latest broken promise by the Liberal government.
At risk is $15,000 to the group, which stages its annual festival here each winter.
“Arts and music festivals were told they would be eligible for grants from gaming revenues, but now just as the application deadline for those grants looms we have learned that festivals like the Kamloops Festival of the Performing Arts could be cut off.”
Festival president Helen Newmarch said Monday the society was worried last year when cuts came down but was assured by a promise of three years of funding, expiring next year. The society relies on gaming grants for up to one-third of its budget.
“I’m just really hoping we’re OK. If we don’t get it we’re in trouble – our budget is so tight.”
The NDP said Coleman turned the tap off, despite a promise to protect arts, music festivals and museums run by non-profits.
“Gaming grants are a substantial source of funding for many community groups. To make matters worse, these cuts come on top of countless other cuts to arts and culture activities,” said Herbert.
But Kamloops-South Thompson MLA Kevin Krueger said there may be money available through his ministry, an Olympic legacy fund as well as B.C. Arts Council funding.
He said Coleman’s ministry is placing priority on social housing and help for the poor.
“He’s looking after the neediest during a time of worldwide recession.”
Krueger said he believes in cultural tourism and promoting B.C.’s artists — something the funding from his ministry is intended to promote.
“They’re welcome to make application to the B.C. Arts Council (but) we haven’t lined up how that new fund will work.”
Newmarch said in addition to the annual performing arts festival here, the society is also holding the provincial festival, next June. That will also require grants from the province.
“So far we’ve heard nothing. We’re assuming we’re not going to be affected.”
