Niamh Smyth (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I know the Minister has been very supportive of the arts in education charter and, specifically, the local arts in education partnership. As the Minister is aware, we had a very good model in Cavan-Monaghan. There is an opportunity for equality proofing, getting into the heart of primary school children and giving them the opportunity to engage in and access arts and cultural activities. That partnership is intended for local authorities and education and training boards, which are at the heart of education. I know the Arts Council is very supportive of that notion as well. Dr. Katie Sweeney is the national director for the integration of the arts at the Department of Education and Skills. In terms of the Minister's budget and plans for 2017, is there anything specific for the development of local arts in education partnerships where the measure referred to by Deputy Tóibín could be rolled out?

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