MTA's commitment to cultural heritage

The Malta Tourism Authority refers to the editorial entitled An Easy Way Out To Finance Culture (June 1) in particular the part where it takes the MTA to task and asks it to "put its money where its mouth is and channel in the direction of heritage and culture money spent elsewhere on certain sponsorships the final aim of which is at times unclear if not dubious".

Contrary to the misguided impression being asserted in the editorial, the MTA invests heavily in the cultural heritage as it is conscious of the great importance this plays in the overall tourism product of destination Malta.

The latest example of this is the €120,000 donated to Heritage Malta for the refurbishment of the War Museum in Valletta.

The countless donations and assistance given to various local councils and other entities, for cultural events held all year round in numerous towns and villages across Malta and Gozo, are evidence enough of the unwavering commitment to culture.

These vary from events such as the upcoming Joseph Calleja concert, to support for organisations such as Fondazzjoni Patrimonju Malti, Fondazzjoni Wirt Artna and many more.

The MTA's sponsorship criteria when it comes to events include those which enhance Malta's cultural calendar of events, increase the overall tourism product on offer as well as promote Malta as a tourist destination overseas.