The award is in recognition of the contribution that philanthropists make to cultural life over a period of time, or in recognition of a major gift they have donated to the arts.
Commenting on the award the Minister said: “I congratulate Dr and Mrs Naughton on being selected as the first of five to receive the National Honour of a Prince of Wales medal, it is a tremendous achievement.
“The award of this medal to individuals from Northern Ireland is important in that it will not only promote recognition of the importance of philanthropy, but will also help to create an awareness that people like the Naughtons have much to contribute in support of the arts.
“Their generous donation of £1million in 2007 towards the building at the new Lyric Theatre is the largest personal gift ever made to an arts organisation in Northern Ireland. It has made an immense difference to the Lyric’s fundraising efforts to enhance the cultural landscape of Northern Ireland.”
Discussing the need for more cultural philanthropy the Minister added: “In Northern Ireland we need more people like Dr and Mrs Naughton to support our arts and cultural sector. They are wonderful role models and I hope that the publicity around this award will help to increase awareness of philanthropy and show the recognition that valued donors make to the arts.
Notes to Editors:
1. A recent report into Philanthropy commissioned by the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure and Arts & Business outlined the need for the arts to raise its profile and for the need for more cultural philanthropists in Northern Ireland.
2. The award was presented to Dr and Mrs Martin Naughton by HRH, the Prince of Wales at an ‘Arts and Business UK’ event, at a ceremony in Clarence House, in London.
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