Séamus Brennan (Dublin South, Fianna Fail)

As Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism I have responsibility for the promotion of the per cent for art scheme. At present my Department is chairing the interdepartmental public art committee. This committee is examining the current guidelines for the scheme and it will report to me on the matter early in due course. In that context, information on investment under the scheme is being collected from all participating Departments and agencies. When that information is available, a true assessment of the impact of the scheme can be made. There is no doubt that the visual impact of this scheme has been overwhelmingly positive. If the guidelines need to be updated, especially in the context of the monetary cap on the scheme, or in the context of proportionality, the guidelines will be republished.

The per cent for art scheme has enhanced and embellished our land, city and townscapes immeasurably. The scheme has given an invaluable platform to many of our visual artists and I look forward to its continued relevance.

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