Michael Lowry (Tipperary, Independent) | Oireachtas source

The fact that Tipperary and similar counties have been deprioritised in terms of economic development places a greater focus on the resources we have to hand. One of those resources, of which we are proud in Tipperary, is our heritage and environment as they underpin the tourism industry in the county. While the organisations and companies working in the cultural sector might not be as recognisable as others, they provide important sustainable employment in the catchment areas in which they operate, as well as attract tourists, both national and international. The quality of life and viability of many of our small towns is dependent on the heritage and arts sector that is in place. For that reason the Department's support for an investment directly through the local authorities is vital to us. Unfortunately, funding in recent years has been limited and inadequate but I am pleased to see that we have an increase in the capital budget for 2019. Could the Minister outline the additional supports that will be made available in the context of the forthcoming centenary celebrations, and how her Department intends to promote those celebrations in an inclusive way to a wider audience?

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