McArthur raises Screen Machine funding in parliament

Orkney MSP Liam McArthur has welcomed an undertaking from the Culture Secretary, Angus Robertson to meet the operators of the Screen Machine to discuss how its future may be safeguarded. Without further funding, Regional Screen Scotland faces the prospect of having to cease the service.

At General Questions in parliament today, Mr McArthur urged the Cabinet Secretary to reach agreement with Regional Screen Scotland to ensure that people and communities across the Highlands &Islands continue to have access to the popular and highly valued mobile cinema. This exchange followed a motion Mr McArthur lodged earlier in the month highlighting Screen Machine’s cultural value and calling for the Government to find a way to safeguard to service.

In response to Mr McArthur, Cabinet Secretary Angus Robertson confirmed that he will be meeting representatives from Regional Screen Scotland early next month.

Commenting, Mr McArthur said:

“I know from personal experience how valuable the Screen Machine has been to communities in Orkney and across the Highlands & Islands over the past 25 years. It has proved to be a much loved and well-used cultural asset, offering opportunities to enjoy the big screen experience to people who would otherwise struggle to get to a cinema.

“I know from my own mailbag how concerned many constituents are at the potential loss of the Screen Machine, which is due back in Orkney next Spring. I’m pleased, therefore, that the Cabinet Secretary plans to meet Regional Screen Scotland next week and hope these discussions pave the way to securing Screen Machine’s future.”