Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

It is important to restate that I believe in ensuring that boards include representatives from the regions. This is in keeping with my policy and desire to make the arts more accessible to communities throughout the country. I am confident that both Mr. McNulty and Ms O'Regan have the right skill sets to serve the board of IMMA well. I take this opportunity to acknowledge that all our cultural institutions have gone through a very challenging time due to severe budget cutbacks necessitated, unfortunately, by the economic collapse.

I will be arguing on behalf of the cultural institutions in the budget negotiations in the coming weeks. I intend to push ahead with various reforms of our cultural institutions. Access to the arts, culture and Ireland's rich heritage is vital for preserving our society and national identity and for helping to promote Ireland's image abroad. The arts, cultural heritage and creative industries make a major contribution to our economy and to sustaining and creating jobs. Cultural tourism, to which these sectors bring so much value, has a significant contribution to make to Ireland's economic recovery and the rebuilding of Ireland's reputation on the international stage.

I will be happy to come before this House to discuss these reforms in detail and to discuss the arts and cultural policy. I look forward to hearing the views of Senators.