11/02/2005

The many workers involved in show-business, united behind a slogan borrowed from Federico Garcia Lorca, 'culture is expensive, but the contrary is even more so', are organising a demonstration against the severe cuts in budget suffered by the Fus (Funds for the visual arts) and the lack of recognition of the strategic importance of the show-business from the Government. The date was decided by the Agis, a society which gathers all workers involved in show-business: the demonstration will take place on the 21st of February, starting at noon, on the Piazza del Pantheon in Rome.

"To the appeal our workers had been launching repeatedly for quite a few months, says Alberto Francesconi, president of the Agis, the authorities have answered by means of further cuts in the public funds allowed our sector.' Francesconi adds that since its creation in 1985, the Fus has lost 30% of its initial purchasing power. And the budget allowed in 2005, which amounts to about 465 million euros, brings our fund back to its level in 1998. "10 to 15% of the companies are threatened, not to mention the terrible consequences on employment.'

(Translated from Italian)