Echo Echo funding cut 'vindictive and unacceptable'

Derry City and Strabane Disctict councillor Shaun Harkin (People Before Profit) has described the 100% funding cut for Derry's Echo Echo Dance Theatre as "vindictive and unacceptable".

Cllr Harkin added: "The Arts Council knows a funding cut of this magnitude will force Echo Echo out of operation with a loss of jobs and its unique contribution.

"Arts and Culture organisations in Derry and the North West have long faced a lack of investment from Stormont. Along with artists and organisations across the sector, Derry City and Strabane District Council has called for increased funding to allow arts and cultural organisations to flourish. The Arts Council decision flies in the face of this goal.

Funding pulled from Derry dance theatre company Echo Echo

The funding cut has been described as an 'immediate existential threat' to the company

"People Before Profit will advocate for the entire Derry City and Strabane Council to take a clear stand against this decision. I have no doubt all those involved in the arts in Derry will stand with Echo Echo against this decision.

"Art enriches all our lives and strengthens communities, but it is also a source of employment for many people. We need to challenge the Arts Council and the DfC Minister on this decision.  Arts organisations and creative workers aren't disposable. This decision must be reversed."