Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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The main cross-Border spend in the Department comes under North-South co-operation, on which there is a small arts measure. For example, the Cross Border Orchestra of Ireland is based in Dundalk. Members may have been fortunate enough to attend the start of the 1916 commemoration ceremonies and the Cross Border Orchestra of Ireland performed at an event in the National Concert Hall. It was absolutely amazing. I am sure the Chairman is familiar with the Cross Border Orchestra of Ireland. It does great work, so I was delighted that we were able to increase its funding last year through the commemorations. Some Arts Council spend on a North-South basis goes to Annaghmakerrig in County Monaghan. The retreat there is funded by the two arts councils, North and South, and it is a great place, a retreat for artists. I was delighted to be able to assist it with some additional funding in order to provide a recording studio because many famous artists have been to Annaghmakerrig. It is a great place for them to come to and they continue to return over the years.