MPs discuss bill establishing deputy ministry of culture

A bill setting up a deputy ministry of culture was discussed in the House Education Committee on Wednesday, with political parties voicing support overall, but reservations over aspects of the proposal.

Addressing MPs, Education Minister Prodromos Prodromou described the initiative as a big step for culture in Cyprus. He said the main provisions cover the creation of a separate administrative structure that will be responsible for cultural activities, cultural heritage, and cultural creation.

Prodromou said that small changes will also be made in matters concerning the Cyprus Library and the Cyprus Theatre Organisation (Thoc).

He added that the establishment of the deputy ministry would open up more possibilities for a comprehensive cultural policy.

Prodromou also said that another bill is being finalised regarding the professional status of artists and cultural professionals.

It is noted that the political parties favour the establishment of the deputy ministry, although some of them express concerns.

Education Committee president, Diko MP Pavlos Mylonas, said that the bill was necessary while Disy MP Giorgos Karoullas said his party welcomed the start of the debate in the House on what he described as a novel proposal that moved in the right direction.

Akel MP Christos Christofides said that his party supported the move, however, he also raised his party’s concerns regarding the budget of the specific Ministry, saying that the state will need to support the cultural services otherwise nothing will change.

Edek MP Andreas Apostolou said his party back the establishment of the deputy ministry, adding that procedures must move quickly.