Greens pan Libs’ plan to cut 10 Days’ funding

The Tasmanian Greens today (Sunday) said that they would not support any cut to funding of the Ten Days on the Island festival as proposed by the Liberals.

Greens Arts spokesperson, Cassy O’Connor MP, said the Liberals clearly have no idea of the enormous value of the arts sector and the Ten Days festival to the Tasmanian economy.

“Tasmania is developing a growing reputation both nationally and internationally for its creative industries. Arts lovers come here from all over the world to enjoy attractions such as Ten Days, MONA and our world-class museums and art galleries.”

“If Tasmania is to build on the opportunities created by MONA we need to grow the creative economy with ongoing government support, not the slash and burn philosophy of the Liberals.”

“It is unbelievably short-sighted and economically irresponsible for the Liberals to propose slashing funding to the Ten Days Festival which it brings such riches, culturally and financially, to Tasmania.”

“The 2011 Ten Days festival presented 232 events in 111 venues in 62 locations around the State, injecting $24.3 million into the local economy. The return on the public investment in this festival is significant indeed.”

“Slashing its funding is just plain stupid.”

“Art brings hope and optimism, and when times are tough we need to stand by artists and the arts.”

“I am surprised that, as his party’s Arts spokesperson and someone who should be speaking up for our creative industries, Will Hodgman could propose causing such damage to our premier arts’ festival.”

“It demonstrates an astounding lack of both insight and vision on the Liberals’ part.”

“The word ‘myopic’ comes to mind …” Ms O’Connor said.