Government and the Bermuda National Gallery have reached an agreement over future support of a priceless art collection.The Watlington Collection was bequeathed to the Island in 1989 by Hereward Watlington, a former Member of Parliament, art collector and restorer.Its donation led to the creation of the BNG in 1992.“Today we will conclude discussions that will inevitably lead to the establishment of a memorandum of understanding that seeks to reaffirm a long-term agreement with the BNG to protect a very special art collection known as the Watlington Collection,” said Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Patrice Minors.BNG director Lisa Howie said the purpose of the memorandum is to solidify the relationship between the BNG and Government.“It is not simply about financial support,” she said. “The bigger picture is that as an important facet to the Government spectrum, the Ministry of Culture is saying this is a valuable collection.“The BNG is therefore valued more. The further dynamic is that arts and culture, and visual arts continues to have an importancy in the community.“They are agreeing to support us. There is no specific references to finances in the document. We have positioned a memorandum for legal purposes. This is the beginning to that further discussion.”