Independent MP Malatinec Calls for Discussion on FPU in Parliament

Bratislava, 13 April (TASR) - MP Roman Malatinec (Independent) has convened a discussion on the functioning of the Arts Support Fund (FPU) that is due to take place in Parliament at 12 p.m. on Tuesday (14 April) with some thirty representatives of the cultural community also attending, TASR has learnt. He explained that the meeting is aimed at providing an opportunity for a constructive dialogue between MPs and culture sector representatives regarding the current challenges in support schemes, in particular as regards the transparency of decision-making processes, the expertise of evaluation bodies, the functioning of committees and the impact of changes on practical application. Malatinec noted that his initiative reflects a situation in which FPU has funds available to support culture but is unable to deliver them to those waiting for them, thus placing many cultural events at risk. This uncertainty also affects tourism and the incomes of small municipalities, for which cultural events represent one of their few business opportunities, he added. jrg/df