14 projects benefit from funding through the Restoration Financing Scheme

The Minister for Culture, Lands and Local Government Owen Bonnici, the Arts Council Malta and the Department of Restoration and Preservation, announced the list of projects that have been awarded funding under the Restoration Funding Scheme where 14 projects will receive a total investment of €190,000 as financial support for the restoration and conservation of immovable cultural heritage. The fund was open to cultural organisations and voluntary organisations that require support for the conservation of internal or external cultural property within parish churches, such as altars, apertures, architectural decor, gilding, as well as painting or decorative surfaces. Minister Owen Bonnici stated, “Investments such as the Restoration Funding Scheme are testament to the importance we place on our cultural and artistic heritage. Our commitment to empowering those involved in traditional activities and creative practices was part of our election pledge. Today we are here to continue to deliver on this promise with substantial investment.” "Through these schemes and initiatives we are continuing to strengthen our cultural infrastructure with a more robust mechanism that safeguards the dynamic development of all the cultural and traditional elements that identify the Maltese people", concluded Dr Bonnici. Arts Council Malta Executive Chairperson Luke Dalli said, "These projects are a testament to the rich and varied nature of our artistic heritage. From baroque masterpieces to more contemporary architectural expressions, they also remind us of the important role that local communities and voluntary organisations play in safeguarding this heritage. This initiative reflects Arts Council Malta's ongoing commitment to safeguarding and preserving the cultural heritage that forms an essential part of our identity as a people." Rita Falzon, Head of Funds within the Council stated, "This scheme was specifically designed to respond to real needs that have been identified in the sector, particularly where conservation work requires specialist expertise and long-term maintenance planning". For more information and to see all the projects that have been awarded funding, visit the Arts Council Malta website at www.artscouncilmalta.gov.mt .