Hermine Necklace: regional funding halved in a few years

For a long time set at 20,000 euros, this grant was reduced to 14,000 euros starting in 2022, before being brought down to 10,000 euros for the year 2026. In total, regional support for this symbolic event has thus been halved.

The support from the Brittany Region to the Cultural Institute of Brittany (ICB) for the organization of the Hermine necklace ceremony has been continuously decreasing for several years, according to grant data consulted by ABP on the region's website.

Long set at 20,000 euros, this grant was reduced to 14,000 euros starting in 2022, before being brought down to 10,000 euros for the year 2026. In total, regional support for this symbolic event has thus been halved.

Created in 1972, the Hermine necklace honors individuals each year who have contributed to Breton culture or its promotion. Organized by the Cultural Institute of Brittany, the ceremony is a significant moment in the Breton cultural calendar. This year, it will take place in Plougastel-Daoulas on October 10.

While the amounts at stake remain modest in the context of the Region's overall budget, their evolution raises questions about the place given to historical cultural institutions. The gradual decrease in this support contrasts with the stability, or even growth, of other budget lines in various sectors.

In 2024, the Cultural Institute of Brittany did, however, receive exceptional support of 20,000 euros, separate from the annual grant related to the ceremony, which partially mitigates the observed trend.

The Cultural Institute of Brittany specifies that the reduction in the grant no longer allows for the organization of the ceremony without incurring financial losses.

During the general assembly held in Vannes on April 11, the ICB publicly disclosed the difficult situation currently facing the institute. A new president should be elected on May 23.