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

Under the Arts Act 2003, primary responsibility for the promotion and support of the arts, including arts and disability, throughout the country is devolved to the Arts Council. The council is independent in both its funding and executive decisions.

In 2013 the Arts Council published its arts and disability policy 2012 to 2016 to address issues of equity, access and participation for artists and audiences with disabilities. The policy is available on the council's website. It was developed in consultation with a wide range of stakeholders and the council continues to work in partnership with the sector in its implementation. The policy is built on a number of key values, including equality, the social model of disability, the complexity and diversity of people and practices, an holistic approach and inclusion. Arts Council policy recognises the complexity and diversity of people and practices that make up the arts sector in Ireland. It acknowledges and values the artistic contribution of artists and other art professionals with disabilities and is committed to the provision of support not only for artists and other arts professionals but also for participants, artistic collaborators and audiences with disabilities. The council also makes every effort to provide reasonable accommodation for people with disabilities who wish to submit an application but have difficulties in accessing online services.

I understand the Arts Council’s arts and disability policy is due to be reviewed and updated in the context of the council's new ten year strategy, Making Great Art Work, which is expected to be published in the coming months. I will ask the council to reply directly to the Deputy on its plans for a policy document.

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