Martin Heydon (Kildare South, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

It did. I want to make a couple of points on culture and another on heritage. I thank the Minister and Minister of State for their engagement with us today. The Estimates process is very important.

On Galway 2020 projects, it has been disappointing to see changes in the management team. I understand the Minister, Deputy Madigan, met the chair of Galway 2020 to discuss the CEO stepping down and the cultural leadership plans. It is essential that leadership matters are resolved as soon as possible. The appointment of a new CEO yesterday is a positive development, but it is crucial that Department officials finalise the performance delivery agreement with Galway 2020 promptly. Galway can be a fantastic European Capital of Culture if all parties work together in a positive and proactive way. It has been a disappointing couple of weeks, but I believe we have turned a corner and I encourage the Minister to continue her very proactive approach to it.

There should be increased funding for small-scale local festivals and summer school schemes. The big events get the headlines, but small events in local communities, in the areas children are from, are critical. They help bring culture and creativity to life. Big events in big cities are great, but I ask that consideration be given to increasing funding at smaller-scale events such as local festivals and summer school schemes.

I commend the work of the Creative Ireland programme, including its work on Cruinniú na nÓg in June. It was very successful, and it was great to see children being encouraged and celebrated in their local communities.

I will speak about heritage later.