Mary Upton (Dublin South Central, Labour)

The idea of a culture night is an excellent one. I understand it was very well attended and was a great boost for many museums and cultural institutions. In my constituency, areas like the Liberties and Kilmainham have a particular claim to cultural institutions and museums and these were proactive and pleased with this development. I would like to see the idea being extended to larger towns and cities around the country.

The Minister stated his Department has not received any proposals from the local authorities in these areas. Perhaps the Department should take the initiative on this matter and promote and encourage them as they may not be aware there is a process in which they can engage. Clearly the benefits are enormous. It is also important from the point of view of individuals who cannot get to these institutions during the day. The fact that it is free is a major enticement and would engage people and get them more involved on a longer term basis.

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