Graham Berry, Director of the Scottish Arts Council, today welcomed the Scottish Executive announcement of appointments to its Council, including Skye-based Gaelic singer, Arthur Cormack.

'We are delighted that James Boyle has agreed to stay on for a further three years as Chairman.  His tenure over the past three years has seen a series of major achievements such as the creation of the National Theatre of Scotland, the investment of a very significant sum of money in Youth Music Tuition, the establishment of the Writers Factory, a series of important strategies for embedding audiences, education, Gaelic and equalities in Scottish cultural provision, and international success for artists at the Smithsonian Folklife Festival, the Venice Biennale and South by South West. The Scottish Arts Council's Corporate Plan for the next five years will work with artists and arts organisations to reflect a greater focus on developing
wider audiences for the arts, and a robust determination to create a confident cultured Scotland.

'Arthur Cormack's appointment as a new member of Council is also very welcome.  A Mod gold medallist and a renowned Gaelic singer with Cliar, Arthur is an accomplished artist in his own right.  He has considerable experience as an arts administrator and was previously a valued member of the Scottish Arts Council Music Committee.  He has made important contributions in a number of cultural spheres, including widening opportunities for children and young people through his work with Fèisean nan Gàidheal, and playing a major role in the development of the Scottish Arts Council's Gaelic policy which is enriching the national cultural landscape.

'We confidently look forward to working with James Boyle, Arthur Cormack and other members of Council to ensure that the arts are at the heart of building a better Scotland.'