Speaking before his visit to the National Eisteddfod in Denbigh the Minster outlined how bodies can work closer together to help more people in some of the most disadvantaged areas of Wales access and take part in the arts, culture and historic environment.
The Minister has asked Baroness Kay Andrews OBE to produce a report that will make recommendations on how organisations can work better together to meet this aim.
It will also outline how bodies can develop stronger links with anti-poverty schemes such as the Welsh Government’s Communities First programme.
John Griffiths said:
"Our Programme for Government outlines our commitment to increasing participation in culture and heritage . I want to give particular encouragement to low income families and children.
"It is important that we develop this agenda by ensuring that all the key organisations, as well as Government, work together as well as possible.
"I welcome Baroness Andrews’ appointment to take forward this important piece of work."
Baroness Andrews, who will gather evidence from bodies across the arts, heritage, museum, archive and library sectors in order to produce the report, said:
"I am delighted to have been asked to work with the culture and heritage agencies in Wales to build on their success so far to achieve even greater social benefit.
"Culture and heritage are interdependent and Wales is splendidly rich in both and ready to show how much more can be accomplished by working more closely together."
Communities & Tackling Poverty Minister Jeff Cuthbert said:
"Education, skills and helping people find work is central to our efforts to fight poverty. However, taking a broader approach and making sure those from our most deprived communities have access to Wales' rich culture and heritage is also important."
Baroness Andrews, originally from Tredegar, is currently finishing her term as Chair of English Heritage.
It’s anticipated that the report will be published in the new year.
http://wales.gov.uk/newsroom/cultureandsport/2013/7689587/?lang=en