Reply:

 

The Department is in the process of implementation of the Revised White Paper which requires that the relevant Line function in the Department, Entities Management Unit, the Legal Services Unit and the Institution itself (Executive & Board or Council of State Owned Entities) should meet and identify issues of substance that need to be addressed if legislation needs to be amended. Consultations with other stakeholders will follow afterwards including the ones scheduled by Parliament.

The Department’s responsibility to create and/or provide an enabling environment for cultural expression and the arts with regard to independent institutions and any other institution within the cultural and creative space is being attended to through the process of development of the Cultural and Creative Industries Master Plan which is in the process being finalised and has started going through the structure of Cabinet for final endorsement. This is a blueprint strategic document aimed at creation of a conducive environment for the industry to grow and be self-sustainable.

Over and above this; the Department is in the process of development of the theatre and dance policy; in consultation with representatives from the sector; who are part of the policy development. All of these interventions; amongst others are geared towards the same objective”.