5. To ask the Scottish Government what assistance it is providing to the arts sector in Dumfries and Galloway. (S6O-03220)

The Scottish Government, through Creative Scotland, provides support to a number of cultural organisations and individuals in Dumfries and Galloway. Two of Creative Scotland’s regularly funded organisations—the Stove Network and the Wigtown Festival Company—are based in Dumfries and Galloway. Together, they receive a total of £186,000 per year in funding. In addition, the Stove Network receives regular funding from Creative Scotland as part of the culture collective programme.

On a clear night, more than 7,000 stars and planets are visible with the naked eye from the international dark sky park in Galloway forest park. Sadly, as I am sure the Minister is aware, the observatory that was sited high above Dalmellington was destroyed by fire in 2021. The trustees of the observatory are keen to replace it and have identified a new site at the former Clatteringshaws visitor centre, which is owned by Forestry and Land Scotland. The trustees are currently sourcing funding from a variety of organisations, including South of Scotland Enterprise and VisitScotland, to help to progress their plans. Given the enormous cultural, art and educational benefits that it would offer, and the significant boost that it would bring to the local economy, will the minister engage with Forestry and Land Scotland and other Government agencies to support that worthy cause?

I am happy to do so.