'SAVE THE ST ANDREWS FESTIVAL,' SAYS SMITH
February 18, 2009 6:48 PM
Iain Smith MSP is extremely concerned about the real danger that the St Andrews Festival, already widely advertised in the official Homecoming programme, will fail to go ahead this year due to uncertainty over its funding. He has written to Mike Russell, Minister for Europe, External Affairs & Culture, saying,
'The question of funding the St Andrews Festival is a matter of extreme urgency, because if it is not finalised within the next few weeks the Festival simply will not take place. I am sure you will agree that such an outcome would be most regrettable. I am therefore seeking a meeting with you at your earliest convenience to ensure that there is a fitting climax to the Homecoming celebrations upon the festival of Scotland's patron saint, in the town that bears his name.'
Mr Smith has also written to the Chief Executive of Fife Council, regretting that Fife Council does not appear to be according such an important event with the resources it merits, and as a result whether it takes place is threatened by a shortfall in projected funding. Mr Smith wrote,' I'm sure you will agree that it would be a great pity if this widely-advertised and exciting event were not to take place; however unless the question of financing it is resolved within the next few weeks, the St Andrews Festival will have to be severely curtailed. I am disappointed that Fife Council does not appear to be giving this prestigious Fife event its full backing.'
Mr Smith added, 'Getting the funding in place is a matter of urgency; already one of the musical groups has had to withdraw and go instead to another event because the St Andrews Festival did not have the money to confirm their booking. It is greatly feared that other participants may follow suit. However I hope that the Scottish Government and Fife Council, even at this late hour, will be able to come up with a solution which will save the St Andrews Festival.'
ENDS
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