AQW 28644/17-22 Written question to the Minister for Communities
To ask the Minister for Communities (i) what steps were taken to ensure freelance workers in the creative industry sector, such as musicians, DJs, promoters, publicists, artist managers, security staff, technicians, sound engineers and other associated staff, were able to access previous and current arts sector support grants; (ii) for her assessment of the effect on these workers of the downturn in trade in the night-time hospitality and nightclub industries; and (iii) to detail any plans she has to support these workers both prior to, and beyond, the 26 January 2022 date for a change in restrictions, should this downturn persist.
Asked by Claire Sugden MLA on 25 January 2022
- Answered
- Written
- After due date
- Tabled
- 25 January 2022
- Answer due by
- 9 February 2022
- Answered
- 24 February 202230 days after tabling
- Department
- Department for Communities
- Priority question
- No
Answer
In September, I acted on the recommendation of the Culture Arts and Heritage Recovery Taskforce and launched the Creative Individuals Recovery Programme. This provided awards of up to £2,000 to help creative freelance and self-employed individuals reactivate, or enhance their trade, vocation or profession within the creative economy.
I am pleased to say that 1433 people received just under £3 million.