Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent)
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Question 3: To ask the Minister for Arts; Heritage and the Gaeltacht the progress that has been made to date in implementing the Programme for Government plan regarding the arts and in particular the progress made in seeking to capture some public good from the National Assets Management Agency by identifying buildings that have no commercial potential and which might be suitable as local facilities for art and culture particularly in Dublin Central. [22334/11]

Dinny McGinley (Donegal South West, Fine Gael)
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I assure the Deputy of this Government's commitment towards the arts and culture sectors. We are intent on pursuing this agenda while recognising the limited financial resources available and taking account of the evolving budgetary and Estimates positions. I am pleased to report that in the four months since taking office, progress is being made on a number of fronts in regard to our commitments in the programme for Government. Strategic policy formulation is the primary function of my Department and significant work has been undertaken on its new statement of strategy. Dialogue has been initiated within the arts community and with local authority arts officers with a view to introducing an interactive strategy and more co-ordination of their work at national and local level. Interesting connections are being made with relevant individuals to explore the possibilities for philanthropy and other fund-raising activities. In that context, the Department is now represented on the forum on philanthropy.

I also understand that the Arts Council has been developing its touring policy. Plans are now being finalised for Culture Night 2011 and I hope to progress publication of the 1926 census in coming months.

In relation to the proposal regarding the use of NAMA buildings for cultural purposes, the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht has met the chair and chief executive of NAMA on the matter and those contacts will continue. It would not be appropriate to comment in more detail on those discussions at this point.

The next five years can be an exciting time for the arts, culture and film sectors. Their integration into one Department, along with the Irish language, islands and heritage responsibilities, makes eminent sense and I look forward to seeking out and building on the self-evident synergies between these areas.

Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent)
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I mean no disrespect to the Minister of State, Deputy McGinley, when I express disappointment that the Minister is not in the Chamber to take questions. The Technical Group facilitated the various changes to the parliamentary question rota that have occurred over recent weeks.

Yesterday morning, the Minister attended the launch of the Dublin Fringe Festival at the Project Arts Centre. When I spoke to him afterwards, he expressed his admiration for the drive and enthusiasm of the group of largely young people who organised the festival. Many of these individuals were involved in Dublin Youth Theatre, which is housed in appalling accommodation in Gardiner Street. However, even though the building is restricted and does not have enough room for its needs, Dublin Youth Theatre has produced a number of talented playwrights and actors. I hope alternative accommodation for this group will be on the agenda when the Minister continues his discussions with NAMA. When does the Minister of State envisage the Minister issuing a report on the discussions?

The project for this year's final class of architecture students in DIT was "NAMA lands". They came up with several interesting suggestions for NAMA's buildings, many of which are located in Dublin Central. There was a particularly interesting proposal for that appalling monument to Anglo Irish Bank on North Wall. Perhaps the Minister's attention can be drawn to the students' exhibition.

Dinny McGinley (Donegal South West, Fine Gael)
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The Minister is absent due to a change in Question Time which was originally arranged for earlier in the afternoon. He regrets that he has another commitment and, as a result, is unable to attend. I am deputising for him as the Minister of State with responsibility for the Gaeltacht.

The Minister has met the chief executive of NAMA on two occasions and discussions are ongoing. The questions raised by the Deputy will be conveyed to him and I hope a reply will be furnished at the earliest opportunity.

Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent)
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I recognise that we must operate within economic constraints, but I was pleased to learn there will be continued support for the arts. There is a significant movement within community arts and I hope this area is well supported in the budget.

Dinny McGinley (Donegal South West, Fine Gael)
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I completely agree with the Deputy. While I do not have responsibility for the arts, I attended or opened a number of arts festivals and exhibitions over the past several weekends. A fortnight ago I visited Inis Oirr, where I had the honour of opening a fine exhibition by artists from Celtic countries, including Scotland, Wales and Ireland. Last Friday I had the privilege of opening an art exhibition in my own parish. There is a boom in the arts in every part of the country and that is to be welcomed. The energy and creativity of these people are not hindered by the considerable financial constraints under which we must operate. I am sure the Deputies opposite have had similar experiences of being invited to openings and seeing the genuine enthusiasm of those involved with the arts. It is a great credit to the country.