LIMERICK performers and artists who had applications for funding rejected by the City of Culture are angry over what they perceive as the “extravagant” consultancy fees paid to its newly appointed chief executive, according to a city councillor.
Cllr Tom Shortt told the Limerick Post that a number of local artists are concerned that funding is “being wasted” while they are being denied funding that would provide them with some badly needed employment.
“The pitiful small amounts of funding distributed to prominent Limerick artists and arts organisations at last week’s Council meeting in grants of €150 and €300 were in stark contrast to the disclosure that generous daily consultancy rates of €700 were paid by Limerick City of Culture to Patricia Ryan, the former adviser to Pat Cox,” Cllr Shortt commented.
“There is outrage in the community at large and the arts sector in particular that Ms Ryan does not bring appropriate expertise and experience to this highly demanding role but can still command this level of remuneration,” he said.
Cllr Shortt, who is an art teacher, represented Limerick City Council on the board of the Belltable Arts Centre for four years.
