Ms Katie Lowry:

Yes, 100%. I tell people that before they start thinking about the application form and what they have to do; it is a hearts and minds exercise. European funding is there to deliver on social and political ideals. In the context of the regions - Ms Tunney and Ms O'Callaghan may wish to come in on this as well - the paradox is that this is very large-scale funding but the best projects are delivered at a local level. Nothing makes the Commission happier than a project that is in a community that might not have access to these types of arts activities or have seen a lot of EU funding.