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

Primary responsibility for the promotion of the arts at all levels is devolved to the Arts Council which is funded by my Department but statutorily independent in its day-to-day operations, including funding decisions.

With regard to funding submissions by groups of the nature referred to, the Deputy will appreciate that any such submission would be for independent assessment and decision by the Arts Council. Any such potential applicant approaching my Department would be directed to the council as a matter of course.

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