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

I reiterate that there is a desire on the part of practising artists, curators and art educators in the North of Ireland, particularly the MAC and, I am sure, many institutions such as Queen Street Studios and other independent art studio spaces in Belfast and the North of Ireland, to engage with the Minister and the Arts Council to formalise the relationships that exist with the Arts Council of Northern Ireland. Does the Minister have specific information on what she intends to do to bring a breath of fresh air and a new way of doing things in the arts, and in engaging in a new relationship with the arts sector in the North of Ireland? With Brexit looming and a non-functioning Assembly, these people are asking for our help. They have visited Leinster House to discuss with all parties their desire to work and to formalise the relationship. Will the Minister outline the specifics of what she intends to do? I would appreciate it.

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