The Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture engaged with the Foundation of Concerned Arts Professionals (FOCAP) to address concerns related to their intended picketing scheduled for August 29, 2024.

The roundtable discussion, held at the Ministry’s forecourt, focused on FOCAP’s call for the establishment of a Creative Arts Agency Board and Executive Secretary.

During the meeting, the chief director of the Ministry confirmed that they had received clearance from various divisions and that by the end of August, recruitment for a skeleton staff to fill critical positions would commence.

An approved organogram was presented, and it was assured that interviews for the new positions would start this week.

FOCAP’s primary demand for a legally constituted board and executive secretary was acknowledged. The Ministry explained that the establishment of the board would follow the appointment of the skeleton staff, as required by Act 1048.

The Ministry committed to arranging another meeting with FOCAP before the scheduled picketing to address these issues conclusively.

FOCAP expressed its determination to ensure that effective systems and structures are implemented within the creative arts sector.

The foundation reassured its members, allies, and the media of its commitment to keeping all stakeholders updated on progress.