Budget cuts affect local student, part-time jobs: museum director

The provincial government’s cuts to grant funding are affecting many in the culture and heritage sector throughout Nova Scotia, including two Dartmouth sites: Evergreen House on Newcastle Street and Quaker House on Ochterloney Street. “We are facing a 20% reduction to the Community Museums Assistance Program, which for us is a core source of funding," said Amanda Furniss, executive director of the Dartmouth Heritage Museum, which operates both sites.

“We are trying to minimize any negative impacts that the public will see,” Furniss told the Post, adding that opening hours and free admission, as well as programs and events, will not be affected. Where the funding cuts will bite is with the museum’s capacity for student and part-time employment, and its ability to fund some volunteer programs.

In her conversation with the Post, Furniss underscored how the museums now facing these budget cuts serve their communities. “Community museums support education, tourism, the local economy, community wellbeing, and the preservation of stories that define who we are as Nova Scotians.” Furniss said.