‘Derisory’ financial support attacked

THE president of one of the country’s largest chambers of commerce has attacked the Government for its “derisory” financial support for the European Capital of Culture.

Speaking at a business breakfast hosted by Cork Chamber of Commerce yesterday, its president Robin O’Sullivan said the Government will only grant 50% funding for a budget, presently constricted to €13.5 million to run the year-long event that the city will host in 2005.

He then simulated a spit to highlight his annoyance, which prompted applause from many of the hundred- plus business men and women attending the function in Jury’s Hotel.