Fáilte Ireland cutbacks may hit festivals

LEADING festivals in Kerry could be hit by reductions in grants from Fáilte Ireland and local business interests may be expected to make up the shortfall.

The grant to Killarney Summerfest, for instance, this year comes to €150,000 - €100,000 less than last year - and business people are being asked to contribute €100,000 to make sure the event is run to the same standards as in previous years.

Kris Kristoferrson, the Corrs and Tom Jones have been among the top-line acts to perform in open air concerts at Summerfest.

But, now Summerfest organisers are seeking support from hoteliers and other businesses to meet the cost of running the event, which is around €500,000.

The festival, held in late June and early July, is estimated to generate €4 million for the local economy. Summerfest chairperson Patrick O’Donoghue, also managing director of the Gleneagle Hotel, said he was determined to maintain the high standards that had already been set.

Other festivals in Kerry may also feel the effects of changes in the fund. Events which have received funding under the scheme include Féile na Bealtaine in Dingle, The Gathering in Killarney and the World Bodhrán Championships, in Milltown. According to Fáilte Ireland, there has been a significant increase in applications under the scheme.

A spokesperson said that festivals are being encouraged to become self-reliant.

The grants scheme, which is administered by Fáilte Ireland on behalf of the Department of Arts, Culture and Sport, is in its final year. A future phase of the scheme is being reviewed. But, if the scheme is to be continued it could have a different focus, most likely on cultural tourism.