Protest at the parliament - 4th September 2008
posted by ros on 4th September 2008 at 12:00
Over 200 protesters gathered for a colourful protest outside the parliament today, raising awareness of the lack of funding currently available for traditional music. Several MSPs also lent their support. At parliamentary questions in the morning, Sarah Boyack asked Linda Fabiani what funding support was available for community-based Scottish traditional arts to ensure that our culture survives into the future. Read the full text of the discussion here
After the protest representatives from SMG, the TMSA and the STDT then went on to meet with Linda Fabiani, to discuss their current funding concerns.
As a result of this meeting, the Scots Music Group has decided to approach the SAC again, to discuss short-term funding to see us through this period of uncertainty.
Many thanks to everyone who took time to come along today to show their support, and also to those who have worked behind the scenes to make the event such a success!
If you have any photos from the protest you’d like to share with us, please email copies to Ros
Click on the picture below to see a slideshow of photos from the protest. Thanks to Colin Gajewski, John Davey, Giles Guthrie and Shirley wemyss, whose photos are included in this selection.
Comments:
Derek - 4 September 2008, 20:11
Was a good turnout. Special thanks to the staff who did a lot of work getting people along, banners etc.
Whatever the outcome, this is re-affirming the community that is SMG.
Alastair Cameron - 4 September 2008, 20:07
I want to say a huge thank you to everyone who turned up outside the Parliament today. It was an excellent display of support, and it was good to see MSPs of the different parties with us.
Particular thanks to the speakers – our colleagues Alison from TMSA and Angela from STDT, Rob Gibson and Cathy Peattie, Stan Reeves; to Sarah Boyack for her question to the Culture Minister; to Louise the piper and all the other musicians; to Kay for leading the Freedom Come All Ye; and as ever to our dedicated staff, Ros, Clare and Sheila.
A bunch of us had a meeting afterwards with Linda Fabiani, the Culture Minister. It was friendly, but she didn’t offer us a Get out of Jail card. We’ll go back to the SAC, and make the case for bridging funding to see us through the coming year. Long term, she says she wants to see the traditional arts properly protected and supported.
So the struggle continues! And don’t forget, all our classes are happening as usual this session – book up now, and tell your friends.