Seán Ó Fearghaíl (Kildare South, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I commend the Minister on the positive report he has given. Members had a very useful debate in this Chamber a couple of months ago on the importance of philanthropy. This question was tabled conscious of a development that is of concern, namely, the exit from the Irish scene of Atlantic Philanthropies, which over the years has contributed €1.1 billion in funds to not-for-profit organisations, and of the One Foundation, set up by Declan Ryan, son of the late Tony Ryan, which has contributed €40 million. Between them, the aforementioned two organisations represent approximately 86% of philanthropic contributions in general. I accept the Minister's comment that unfortunately, only a small percentage of such moneys go towards the arts. Consequently, the initiative taken by the Minister is particularly welcome. However, at a time when these major donors appear intent on exiting the Irish stage, how can one ensure Ireland will get its comparative contributions? In this context, I note the United Kingdom gives 6% of its overall giving to the arts, while the equivalent figure in the United States is 5%. If the figures I have to hand are correct, even now, less than 1% is given in Ireland. What initiatives has the Minister in mind to address this issue?

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