Minister for the National Heritage, the Arts and Local Government José Herrera announced his Ministry’s plan for 2021 for the creative and cultural sectors, RESTART2021. He explained that next year €3.62m will be allocated in direct funds issued through the Malta Arts Council, whereby they will be made available in a more simplified, effective and sustainable manner.
Minister Herrera stated that through this vision they will achieve various goals including ensuring that artists and those involved in the cultural and creative sectors recover in a sustainable and resilient manner; safeguard employment and the future of the sector; prepare and assist all those involved in responding to the new normal after the pandemic and allocate funds and use existing structures efficiently and effectively.
Today’s announcement is part of an extensive recovery plan that also includes €2.5m in direct funds related to programmes from public cultural organisations. Apart from this, further assistance is being given through the Wage Supplement, funds allocated by ministries and other entities, from the COVID-19 Arts Task Force, continuous research on audiences, and conceptual studies on the use of performative spaces as well as through European Funds.
The Malta Arts Council is responsible for the careful and transparent administration and distribution of public funds, reiterated Mr Albert Marshall, Executive Chairman of the Malta Arts Council. He explained that these schemes are made up of all available funds including additional funding provided by the Central Government so that the creative and cultural sector can benefit from them and local and foreign audiences can enjoy the artistic work.
Ms Mary Ann Cauchi, Director of Funds and Strategy indicated that in addition to new funding schemes for Digital Research and Development, and for Arts Education, the RESTART 2021 scheme is offering simplified methods of application, based on four main criteria, with a wider range of eligible costs and a commitment to accelerated payment. These funding schemes are available to individuals, groups, organisations or companies.
