Séamus Brennan (Dublin South, Fianna Fail)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 11 and 22 together.

The Arts Council has presented me with a copy of the report and I have studied its contents. As this report has not yet been published it would be inappropriate to comment on its recommendations at this stage.

In advance of my considering the proposals further and discussing them with my colleague, the Minister for Education and Science, and with the Arts Council, it would be premature of me to comment further. The report will also have to be considered in the context of the 2008 Estimates and beyond. Those Estimates are currently being discussed with the Minister for Finance.

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