Arty-arty

The Stage Online announces that Bertie Aherne has spoken out in support of plans to erect a statue to the late, great Luke Kelly, of the Dubliners, in Dublin’s north inner city area. Ahern lends support to Luke Kelly memorial. Sadly plans to erect a bronze memorial plaque, in the shape of a replica Fender Stratocaster, to Rory Gallagher has been opposed by the Irish National Library.Elsewhere in the Stage is reported that the government of the ROI is considering changes to one of Charles Haughey’s great successes, the scheme from some 30 years ago where writers, musicians and artists enjoy tax-free status.Intended to support and show appreciation for culture, when launched there were few high-earners, but the huge wealth of some stars has caused resentment. Millionaire musicians to lose Irish tax free status. Finally, Ruth Gillespie reports dire warnings from the Arts Council of Northern Ireland Chair(P.C.term) Ruth Kelly regarding the reduction of arts spending proposed in the draft budget for Northern Ireland. “ACNI chairperson Rosemary Kelly said that improved arts facilities were essential to the social and economic regeneration of Belfast and that this was highlighted in the city’s failure to progress in its bid to be European Capital of Culture in 2008.” Arts Council warns of Northern Ireland shortfall

Ambrose Uprichard