Richard Bruton (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am sure the Business Committee will be very happy to arrange a debate on the issue. There is no doubt that the Creative Ireland programme, the context for development in this area over a number of years, sets out very significant ambitions which will be reflected in the capital programme. They include the ambition to support new art centres, theatres, galleries, museums and heritage centres, the sort of thing which can make a difference in the use and enjoyment of our cultural heritage. That is very much part of the Government's plan. To be fair, since 2014 the budget for the Arts Council has increased by 20%. I have no doubt that it uses the money extremely well to leverage activities, festivals, bursaries and so on across the artistic community. As to when we will make money available, the Taoiseach's ambition for the arts and culture sector will be a major feature of decisions made in future budgets.

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