John O'Donoghue (Kerry South, Fianna Fail)

The Cork City of Culture organisers knew precisely what the funding would be. Far from staying with the original figure, the Government increased its investment. Sponsorship and benefit in kind have exceeded €5.5 million and are heading for €6 million.

It is true that when we make international comparisons with larger cities that have held the title of European City of Culture, Cork's budget is not as high but if we compare the spend per head of population the amount being spent in Cork is above the average. An event like this is not just about money, it is also about participation, community and involvement. The involvement that was anticipated and sought is happening and I am pleased about that. It should be remembered that this is a two-way track. It is not a question of Cork exhibiting its own cultural heritage, it is also about Europe doing likewise in Cork.

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