Updated: 22/06/2020 16:33
The popular Glenties Harvest Fair Festival has been granted a share of a government fund for local cultural activities this year.
The outdoor event is among the few that may be permitted to take place this summer with the ongoing pandemic. However organisers have not yet confirmed if the event will go ahead. A decision will be made based on public health advice in due course.
The annual Glenties Harvest Festival, which takes place every September, received €2,500 from the Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht under a scheme for Small Scale Local Festivals and Summer Schools.
The Scheme is designed to assist local cultural events which may not be eligible under funding criteria for larger scale events such as those supported by Fáilte Ireland, the Arts Council and similar bodies.
A total of €54,700.00 was granted to events nationwide.
Projects funded this year are a mix of online initiatives and ‘in real life’ events to be delivered to a domestic audience in line with general public health guidance. The intention is to add to the cultural content assisted by the Department and create a cultural space relevant to both local interest and a wider community.
Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Josepha Madigan, T.D., said: “It is important to support local cultural events and activities as all culture, in essence, starts locally with the people and is reinforced and developed through the community. This is especially important at the present time where many people may be feeling isolated and alone.
“The organisations funded under this scheme have shown great resilience and adaptability in the planning of their projects and the events will have a positive effect on the wellbeing of the attendees lucky enough to get to enjoy them. It is hoped that events supported through the scheme will bring a sense of local culture home while staying apart and a much needed sense of cultural community and closeness.”
