Let Wales shine on the world stage - Burnham (Eleanor Burnham )

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Eleanor Burnham <info@eburnham.org.uk>

Let Wales shine on the world stage - Burnham

January 17, 2006 3:18 PM

Eleanor Burnham AM today expressed her concern at Minister Alun Pugh's apparent lack of support for inter-cultural events such as the Llangollen International Eisteddfod, which aims to showcases Welsh musical talent on the world stage.

Earlier this week, Mr Pugh announced that the National Eisteddfod was to finally receive a long-needed cash boost of £470,000 in 2007/8. However, in Plenary today the Minister refused to offer his support to the Llangollen festival when Ms Burnham questioned his commitment to promoting Welsh culture abroad.

Ms Burnham, Welsh Liberal Democrat Spokesperson for Culture who attended the launch of the Llangollen Eisteddfod, said: "I find it truly astounding that the Labour government appear so insular when it comes to promoting our fantastic cultural identity overseas.

"It's true that culture often figures low on the agenda when it comes to Assembly funding, but that doesn't mean that the government should give up on sharing our rich culture internationally.

"Of course I was pleased to hear of the long awaited and needed cash boost for our National Eisteddfod. I would hope it will go towards including a greater number of people throughout Wales in our cultural experience, whatever their race, language or background. It's obvious to me that we need to do more to build the international reputation of our festivals if we want Wales to become truly multi-cultural.

"Now the Llangollen festival has just lost a bid for Lottery funding and needs the government's support more than ever. Sadly it seems the Minister would rather dismiss my questions outright than discuss the matter. He's letting the chance to see Wales shine on the world stage slip away.

"Whatever the Minister's attitude, I will continue to lobby for events like the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod. These are cultural gems that Wales should be proud of and that should be seen at an international level."

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