Arts Council concern at Abbey Theatre revelations

The Arts Council has expressed its concern at recent developments that have seen two of the Abbey Theatre's directors resign from their position.

Managing Director Brian Jackson and artistic director Ben Barnes have agreed to step aside due to an error in financial reporting that led to an underestimation of the theatre's deficit.

The theatre had initially reported a deficit of around €900,000, when the actual figure is double that at €1.85m.

In a statement to the media today, the Arts Council said it was awaiting a financial report on the situation and, in the meantime, was in ongoing discussions with the Abbey.

Arts Minister John O'Donoghue, meanwhile, said the matter highlighted the need for changes in the structure of the theatre's management.

"Appointment to the board of the Abbey is governed by structures which are archaic," he said. "We must change in order to face the modern world."