Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)

I agree with the Deputy. If the outcome of this were to dilute the value of the institutions, I would not proceed with the process. There are obvious synergies between the three galleries referred to. For instance, a question arises as to whether 40 board members are needed. That is probably not necessary.

Equally, I accept there are important brand issues between the institutions. The Museum of Modern Art is a distinct brand that has currency worldwide. Every country has a museum of modern art. People have their own expectations in terms of what constitutes a museum of modern art as opposed to a traditional national gallery. This is not about cost savings though if it throws up cost savings, we welcome them. Given the importance of cultural tourism to the whole tourism product and its increasing importance into the future, we are seeking to enhance the quality and ability of the three products to continue to be successful as a draw at home and internationally.

See this speech in context