€1.8m fund for Limerick arts sector

LIMERICK, Ireland - Jan. 13, 2015 - PRLog -- Ten local organisations are to receive funding totalling €1,804,500, representing a 3.5% increase on the level of funding received during 2014.

Local funding recipients include the UL-based Irish Chamber Orchestra (€860,000), Eva International (€222,000), Limerick Arts & Culture Centre and The Lime Tree Theatre (€125,000), Association of Irish Choirs (€125,000), Dance Limerick (€125,000), Limerick City Gallery of Art (€112,500) Limerick City and County Arts Service (€102,000) Limerick Printmakers (€60,000), Fresh Film Festival (€53,000) and Friars' Gate Theatre & Arts (€20,000).

"This continued funding allocation to Limerick from The Arts Council shows confidence in the local arts and culture sector, especially when one considers the increase in funds received by local organisations and centres this year," said Sheila Deegan, Arts Officer, Limerick City and County Council.

"In this year’s allocations, most organisations throughout Ireland have received similar amounts to 2014 from the Arts Council. In Limerick however, seven organisations recorded an increase in their funding allocation and the remaining three maintained the same level of funding received in 2014, representing an overall increase of €61,360 on last year's Arts Council allocation to Limerick."

"The local allocation of €1.8m is a reflection of the existing dynamic cultural scene that flourished in 2014 during Limerick's successful year as the first National City of Culture. It is an acknowledgement of the increased capacity and ambition of our arts sector. These funds will allow for continued investment in the local sector for the benefit of people living in Limerick and surrounding counties and those visiting the region," added Ms. Deegan.

The Arts Council is the Government agency for funding and promoting the arts in Ireland. More from www.artscouncil.ie.