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This story was originally published on RNZ.co.nz and republished with permission.
Six positions have been cut at the Christchurch Arts Center as it struggles to keep its doors open.
Te Matatiki Toi Ora Center for the Arts Executive Director Philip Aldridge said he had struggled financially since funding was withdrawn from Christchurch City Council in 2018.
Aldridge appealed to the city council earlier this year that if it doesn’t get some funding, it may have to close by 2022.
He said they have now reduced their workforce by 30 percent, with a reduction from 19 roles to 13 that will take effect on October 5, and those cuts did not leave them in a more secure position.
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* Proposed job losses and pay cuts at the Christchurch Center for the Arts.
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“We are extremely insecure and the only solution is political. I think we can now amply demonstrate that we have cut to the bone, we can’t go any further.
“It leaves us quite dysfunctional, but we still have the doors open.”
Chris Skelton / Stuff
The Christchurch Center for the Arts has been hit hard by earthquakes, funding cuts and the Covid-19 pandemic.
Aldridge said the problem was that the law requires the Arts Center to be an arts center, but it is not funded to do so.
He said his only income came from renting the building to its 30 tenants.
“But that income is never enough to cover the bills. We can never charge tenants for the actual cost of running the building, so there is always a gap.
“That’s where we have to find out if there is political will to keep the place going. So our conversation should be with the city council and the central [government]. “
Aldridge said he will meet with Christchurch city councilors next week and will also strive to have some time with the mayor.
This story was originally published on RNZ.co.nz and republished with permission.
