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An independent review of the management of the Arts Council of Wales was published today (Friday, 1 September). The report was commissioned earlier this year by Assembly Arts Secretary Tom Middlehurst, following widespread public criticism of the Arts Council's performance. Amongst other substantial recommendations, the report proposes that the Council: introduce a more focused organisational structure with a stronger role for regional committees. simplify and clarify objectives by developing the way it approaches strategy and policy implementation; improve support to effective planning and management; ensure it can develop its work in support of Assembly policies and priorities transparently and openly. Mr Middlehurst said: It’s very obvious that the Council has been going through a tough patch in some respects. However, a vibrant and diverse arts scene is an important part of the future of Wales, and the Arts Council remains one of the key players in ensuring that this is realised to everyone’s benefit. "The Council has made a sound start in learning the lessons of recent experience - but a great deal more needs to be done. I urge the Council to act on the recommendations of the Management Review vigorously and rapidly so as to fit itself afresh for what lies ahead. "I do not underestimate the challenge that lies ahead, but we are very fortunate in the strong commitment to the arts displayed by the Chairman and the Council members, many of whom are newly appointed, and in the long tradition of dedicated support offered by their predecessors. I am confident that the Council is capable of delivering the changes necessary to promote and support a vibrant and sustainable arts scene in Wales." Sybil Crouch, Chairman of the Arts Council commented : "Mr Middlehurst’s announcement of this review was welcomed, at the time, by myself and the Council. Whilst I feel we have made considerable progress in recent times, I recognise that there remains a great deal to be done. The recommendations included in the report will help us to focus on a number of key issues. My priority, along with Council members and staff of the Arts Council, is to quickly formulate an action plan which will identify a structured and achievable means of implementing the challenges we are presented with". Notes Richard Wallace, a retired Principal Finance Officer within the Welsh Office, was commissioned to undertake the review. He consulted widely both within the Arts Council and with a broad range of interested parties across Wales. The agreed Terms of Reference indicated that the review should examine the Council's existing systems to establish whether they properly supported the efficient and effective operations of the Council and what action should be taken to improve them. It would also examine whether those arrangements delivered compliance with the highest standards of performance and accountability in the public interest. The Review also extended to the Council systems supporting openness, accessibility, transparency and responsiveness. |
| Arts Council of Wales web site: www.ccc-acw.org.uk |
| Press Office, Arts Council of Wales e-mail: |
Friday, September 1, 2000 |
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