Paschal Donohoe (Fine Gael)

I welcome to the Minister and thank him for attending in person to respond.

I seek clarification regarding the status of the various national galleries and the plans, if any, the Minister has to integrate them. I am a major fan of all the galleries, in particular, the Irish Museum of Modern Art in Kilmainham, IMMA, which has done a magnificent job in recent years in presenting its permanent collection and holding a series of excellent exhibitions by visiting artists from around the world. The work IMMA has done in making its grounds and facilities accessible to families is also remarkable and a lesson to others.

I understand from recent media reports and statements from the Minister that a process has been established to evaluate whether the integration of the administrative costs and management of the different galleries would have merit. This measure is being considered as part of efforts under way to secure savings in various Departments.

Several months ago, I sought details on this development from the Minister of State, Deputy Martin Mansergh. Our national cultural institutions are held in great affection around the country. While they do not feature prominently in public debate on the current economic difficulties, it is important we ensure that our heritage and the institutions that look after it are protected as we make adjustments and face challenges. Government Departments, galleries, museums and other institutions must run their affairs in the most cost-effective manner possible. My purpose is to ensure this is done in a fair and focused fashion.

I raised two concerns with the Minister of State on the previous occasion on which we discussed this matter. First, if the Minister proceeds with measures to integrate elements of the National Gallery, Irish Museum of Modern Art and Crawford Gallery, I ask that he ensure the autonomy and heritage of the individual institutions are recognised and protected. The three galleries differ in many respects. While I would fully support measures to reduce administration and other common costs, I ask the Minister to seek to strike a balance and to recognise that each of the three institutions has a distinct heritage.

Second, I ask the Minister to ensure that all measures have the consent and support of the relevant stakeholders. On reflection, this could prove to be a tall order because some stakeholders will always resist change and the integration of tasks. I understand, therefore, that in the interests of the common good, the Minister and his Department must make decisions which may not please everybody. Nevertheless, it is important to ensure the viability and work of the various cultural institutions are not undermined.

Our first priority must be to ensure the economy survives its current difficulties. At a time when so much is under attack, art, sport and culture, elements which speak to our soul, have never been more necessary. I look forward to the Minister's response and any observations he may have.