Equity is encouraging members who have still not been paid for work at Summerhall in Edinburgh to get in touch following the recent announcement that the venue’s legal dispute with HMRC has concluded.
On Wednesday (8 January) Robert McDowell, Summerhall Director, announced that the HMRC petition to wind up the company over alleged unpaid corporation tax was withdrawn before Christmas.
Summerhall confirmed that access to their bank accounts was restored in December which meant that the company were able to complete all Fringe and other Box Office payments in the run up to Christmas.
This should end months of uncertainty for our members who were waiting for payment from last summer’s Edinburgh Fringe Festival.
Members who have not been paid fully or correctly by Summerhall should contact Equity immediately so we can investigate.
Edinburgh Fringe is an important opportunity for artists to earn money and showcase their talents, it cannot be a lottery whether our members are paid in a fair and timely manner.
Marlene Curran, Equity National Official for Scotland
Commenting Equity National Official for Scotland, Marlene Curran said: “This news will come as a huge relief to artists and performers who spent months waiting for payment without knowing when, or if, that payment would come.
“We’re encouraging anyone who needs further assistance following Summerhall’s announcement this week to get in touch with Equity so we can provide advice and support.
“We now need to learn the lessons to ensure that this situation does not happen again. Payment for artists and performers must be the priority. Edinburgh Fringe is an important opportunity for artists to earn money and showcase their talents, it cannot be a lottery whether our members are paid in a fair and timely manner.”
Get in touch for advice and support on Summerhall by emailing Marlene on mcurran@equity.org.uk.
