After a period of constructive dialogue and extensive information sharing between Arts Council England and MLA, a detailed process designed to enable the transfer of MLA expertise to the Arts Council on 1st October 2011 has been proposed. MLA is now conducting an intensive consultation with its staff and trade union representatives about this process, and the implications for affected individuals. The MLA’s museum and libraries responsibilities will transfer on the same date and meanwhile, MLA will continue to deliver those responsibilities, both nationally and regionally, while at the same time winding down other functions.
The MLA and the Arts Council have collaborated on budgets and other commitments that MLA has entered into for 2011/12, so that the sector should not experience disruption during the transition. An announcement about the future location of the MLA’s archive responsibilities will be made by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport in due course.
MLA Chief Executive Roy Clare said: “It is an important time for libraries and museums, particularly as local government tackles big financial challenges. While we have to divert a lot of our energy to helping a smooth transition of MLA responsibilities to the Arts Council, we also remain committed to achieving the best outcomes from library service changes, to progress Renaissance and the improvement of regional museum services, to advise on the transfer of responsibility for archives policy and to carry out other highly regarded functions such as Accreditation, Designation, and cultural property services.
"MLA staff continue to do a fantastic job, even as many of them face uncertainty or job loss. It is very important that the changes take place in a way that avoids disruption to the sector, and vitally ensures staff are treated in an objective and fair way. We continue to enjoy a close and constructive relationship with the Arts Council as we work together on the changes. For the longer-term, we look forward to seeing the realisation of the possible advantages of more joined-up delivery of cultural services in localities across the country.”