CULTURE workers in Wales will take their campaign for better funding to the Welsh government stand at the Eisteddfod in Wrexham tomorrow.

Trade unions representing creative and heritage-sector workers will stage a demonstration at 3.30pm calling for better funding, following a decade of cuts by the Welsh government.

The unions say that funding of the culture sector in Wales is near the bottom of league tables for spending on culture across Europe.

PCS general secretary Fran Heathcote said: “The most recent round of cuts in the Welsh government budget has only added to the strains on the sector after a decade and more of austerity. 

“There have recently been over 100 job losses at the National Library of Wales and Museum Wales, which has led to the introduction of charges for some exhibitions and tours that were previously free to the public.”

TUC Cymru vice-president Sian Gale, of broadcasting and entertainment union Bectu, said: “The creative and cultural industries contribute over 5 per cent to Wales’s economy yet receive just 0.15 per cent of overall public expenditure, far below the European average of 1.5 per cent.

Prospect’s Jane Lancastle said: “Real-terms budget-cutting in the heritage sector by the Welsh government has had a lasting effect on vital Welsh heritage institutions.

“Many specialists with huge experience have been lost forever, along with their unique knowledge.

“This must be a watershed moment and the Welsh government must act to restore funding and protect Welsh heritage.”