Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I agree that the arts should encompass all areas of society, including disadvantaged communities. It is important that communities be very much supported in respect of the arts. If the Deputy has any concerns, I can speak to him later about them. I will be happy to pass them on to the representatives of the council when I meet them.

As I stated, the Arts Council is independent. It is subject to the ethics in public office legislation, and the members of the council make annual returns under that legislation. Meetings of the council are governed by declaration-of-interest protocols in accordance with best practice. Staff at the council are also subject to declaration-of-interest codes. I accept that the Deputy is saying a considerable part of my Department's budget goes to the Arts Council. It is most important, therefore, that the money be spent well. I accept that.

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