Josepha Madigan (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I understand that a business case was presented to the Arts Council in September, following a discussion with the Department in August. I think that answers the Deputy's question about the business case. It is important to say that the Arts Council considers itself to be fully compliant with its governance procedures and statutory obligations under sections 8 and 9 of the Arts Act 2003, which relate to property acquisition and disposal. When a decision to enter any new lease or purchase is agreed, the council will proceed to seek the consent of the Minister in accordance with section 8(3) of the 2003 Act before any new lease is signed or any future purchase options are proceeded with. As I said, that consent has not yet been sought. The Department has been aware of this matter for several months. The Arts Council is required to examine its accommodation options to ensure the best value for money is obtained. There are many complex issues to consider when such a decision is being made. This decision will have an impact on the council for decades to come. As I said earlier, it is not sufficient to compare annual rents.

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