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

Aosdána is a unique initiative established by the Arts Council in 1981 to honour creative artists who have made a significant contribution to the arts. There are some 250 members of Aosdána, including seven new members who came into membership last week. The scheme is the responsibility of the Arts Council and not my Department. It should be noted that under section 24(2) of the Arts Act 2003, the council is independent of the Minister in its funding decisions.

Members of Aosdána can qualify for a means-tested payment, known as the cnuas, if they are resident in Ireland and are full-time practising artists. Following recent internal audits of Aosdána and a value for money policy review of the Arts Council, undertaken under the guidance of an expert steering committee chaired by Dr. John O’Hagan, professor of economics at Trinity College Dublin, the council is reviewing all aspects of the administration and procedures of Aosdána to ensure the most appropriate governance and oversight arrangements are in place.

In regard to any issues which arise from the review of the Aosdána, these are a matter for the Arts Council and Aosdána. On the proposed changes to the cnuas payment, I understand a process of engagement is planned. I encourage both sides to engage in this thoroughly. I noted in a recent statement Aosdána referenced the relationship of trust which it has shared with the Arts Council for three decades. I hope, therefore, any issues can be resolved now through a collaborative approach.

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