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

Many of the issues raised by the Deputy will be considered when we make our final decision. My officials are engaged in consultations and will submit proposals to me in approximately two weeks. When the Government made the announcement, the Department immediately set up a reform unit, as well as a reform committee to which the unit would answer. An extensive process is ongoing. For example, there was consultation this morning. The information is available to everyone to show the process has taken place. The fundamental questions raised by the Deputy are being considered. The process is taking place but I cannot say today to what I can commit. Artistic and curatorial autonomy is a major consideration for me. The arm's length approach, evident in the Arts Council's dealings with other bodies, will be taken into consideration.

The National Archives and Culture Ireland are within my Department. There was a proposal to make Culture Ireland an independent body but in 2008 it was decided not to do this, and it is still part of the Department. The contract of the previous chief executive officer, who did a very good job, has expired and the job is now advertised. There are people working in Culture Ireland who do a good job and are well qualified for that position.

I thank Deputy Troy for raising these issues and I will certainly consider them. The overriding factor is that our national institutions, which are important from a cultural and economic point of view, are the custodians of our national treasures and must be protected for the future. They are looking after our heritage and culture for all our people. It is important that whatever is done in the future is done for the benefit of these institutions, and whatever actions will be taken will make them more effective to face future challenges.

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