Sandra McLellan (Cork East, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I am taking this question on behalf of Deputy O'Brien.

Clearly, we are a small island with substantial commonalities North and South as well as some differences, particularly in respect of the political dispensations that exist on either side of the Border. However, there are a number of key bodies on either side of the Border which deal with similar things. In particular, Foras na Gaeilge is one of the key all-Ireland bodies under the Good Friday Agreement and functions under the North-South Ministerial Council. More particularly, I wish to inquire about the arts and heritage bodies.

This is particularly important in light of the significance of arts and heritage to our cultural identity. During the decade of centenaries we need to reflect on how matters which previously caused division were expressed through the arts and to consider how this generation might celebrate and commemorate our shared artistic heritage in a way that is not divisive. Will the Minister consider meeting the Minister for Culture, Arts and Leisure in the North on a regular basis to discuss matters relating to arts and heritage with?

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