Obviously missing the point, Senator Kemp is embroidering the truth when it comes to talking up funding levels of the National Museum of Australia.
For the Minister’s benefit, here are the facts:
The Prime Minister himself commissioned a report which warned that if the National Museum was funded insufficiently it would lead to “rapidly declining” visitor numbers and a “significant downgrade” in exhibitions.
As the Minister is fully aware, the Howard Government the chose to fund the National Museum insufficiently – $9 million less than was recommended!
The Museum Director, Dawn Casey, has admitted that this insufficient funding has impacted upon the National Museum, resulting in less exhibitions and reduced visitor numbers and sponsorship to the point where the Museum is only able to hold one major exhibition a year.
The National Museum of Australia has fallen prey to a deliberate act of sabotage by the Coalition Government which threatens its future viability and independence.
The Minister should stop denying there is a problem, and fund the National Museum at an appropriate level.
Media contact: Adina Cirson – (02) 6277 3334 or 0418 488 295
