Professionals of the Arts Industry had the opportunity to exchange views and put forward their proposals as regards the creative sector to the Minister of Finance, Economic Planning and Development, Dr Renganaden Padayachy, yesterday afternoon, during a pre-budget consultative meeting in Port Louis.
Some 30 artists in the fields of music, dance, visual arts, book publications, literature, drama, and theatre, among others, as well as representatives of cultural centres and event organisers were present at the meeting.
Artists made an appeal to Dr Padayachy for their profession to be duly recognised so that they can benefit from different schemes and loans. They also pledged that local artist who are going through a difficult time due to restrictions on gathering and public or cultural events as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic should be financially supported.
Other propositions include: a dedicated stadium to organise live concerts; art to be considered as a component of the cultural industry; a national platform where musical and cultural artists can showcase their talents; and due consideration and support to be given to Mauritian writers.
