(VIP-NEWS) – The Scottish Music Industry Association (SMIA) has issued a stark warning to the Scottish Government, urging immediate action to prevent Scotland’s music and arts industry from collapsing.
The appeal comes in response to the closure of the Creative Scotland Individual Open Fund and delays in opening applications for the Making Music and Strengthening Youth Music Fund.
The decisions were attributed to the Scottish Government’s failure to release previously allocated aid funding, triggering what SMIA said was the worst crisis the sector had ever faced. The organization warns that Scotland’s cultural landscape is at imminent risk of collapse if these vital funds are not urgently restored.
In an effort to drum up support, SMIA published an open letter to First Minister John Swinney. The letter, which can be read by the public, implores the government to recognize the importance of cultural funding and act quickly to ensure the immediate survival and long-term sustainability of the sector.
SMIA is calling on artists, industry professionals and music businesses across Scotland to sign the open letter. Those wishing to have their say for the campaign must fill in the Google form by 2pm on Friday 30 August 2024, the same day the Creative Scotland Individual Open Fund closes. SMIA intends to send the letter, along with all signatories, to the First Minister immediately after the deadline.
“We implore the Scottish Government to take immediate action,” the SMIA said, stressing the urgency of the situation. “Cultural funding must be seen as essential.”
The slogan reflects growing concern among Scotland’s creative community about the potential long-term impact of these funding cuts on the cultural sector. As time passes, SMIA and its supporters hope the government will respond before it’s too late.
