Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North-West Limerick, Fine Gael)

I thank the Deputy. I agree with all the sentiments she expressed. As a rural Deputy, I am conscious that Arts Council and Government funding must be distributed throughout the country because social and cultural inclusion will not be achieved unless the spend is disbursed nationwide and the necessary facilities are in place in order that people can see drama, visit painting exhibitions and experience live and visual arts on a regular basis, for example, to have the opportunity to go to the cinema. There are people in parts of the country who are starved and deprived of those experiences. My new portfolio of arts, heritage and the Gaeltacht will be focused and I will be able to give all my time to the arts. While I would like to be involved in sport and tourism, I will devote all my time to the arts and heritage. Deputy McGinley will look after the Gaeltacht, in which I also have an interest.

I agree with the Deputy's comments and I would like my ministry to be as inclusive as possible. I will listen to people such as the Deputy who have a commitment to the arts to examine ways we can ensure people at all levels have an opportunity to enjoy the arts and to ensure their creativity is challenged. Depressed economic times bring out the creativity in people and they are encouraged to think outside the box. The country is challenged and there is a great opportunity now for the creative instincts in people to be encouraged. I am optimistic regarding the possibilities available in writing, painting and so on.

I began the process in Kerry on the Monday following my appointment. The Department has a wonderful building in Killarney, which has been open for three years, and I am the first Minister to spend time there. That is because of geographical reasons, as it is only half an hour from my home. However, I brought in all those involved in the arts in County Kerry and we are developing a strategy, which can be applied to every county.

I will meet all the arts officers over the next few weeks in order that I can work closely with them and I will encourage county managers to provide funding from their budgets. I will match that funding as best I can and the county that gives most to the arts will be rewarded with Exchequer funding.

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