Fianna Fáil TD for Cork North West Aindrias Moynihan has expressed concern that the redevelopment of Briery Gap theatre in Macroom, which has been closed due to a fire over three years ago, could be further delayed because of a €1.5m funding shortfall.
Deputy Moynihan raised the issue directly with the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht in the Dáil last week.
“Under the previous Arts Capital Scheme, a number of projects received funding ranging from €300,000 to €1,000,000. However, according to Minister Madigan, the new scheme may only provide funding of up to €100,000 for individual projects. This clearly falls far short of what is needed for the redevelopment of Briery Gap”, said Deputy Moynihan.
“Funding for insurance has been secured, and as well as funding from Cork County Council, which is most welcome. However, the Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, has only pledged 6% of the money needed to get the project off the ground, and to see the theatre reopened. A further €1.5m is needed to complete the redevelopment.
“As I pointed out to the Minister, providing €1.5 million in funding will result in a facility worth €4 million, in the area.
“It is up to every local representative to use whatever influence they have to bring about the restoration of Briery Gap. I have given this matter my full support since the fire in 2016, and I call on those in positions of influence to do the same”, concluded Deputy Moynihan.
