Michael D Higgins (Galway West, Labour)
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Question 314: To ask the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the paintings purchased by CIE under the 50 per cent scheme operated by the Comhairle Ealaíon — The Arts Council; the paintings from the CIE collection which were allocated by CIE to the Great Southern Hotels; the position in relation to this part of the Irish heritage; and the proposals he will make for their future. [27186/06]

John O'Donoghue (Kerry South, Fianna Fail)
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The Arts Council is a statutory body under my Department's aegis, and is the principal channel through which State support is directed to the Arts. It is understood from the Council that there are 143 works in the collection in question, which were jointly funded under the Arts Council's Joint Purchase Scheme. These works include works by Gerard Dillon, Patrick Collins, Louis le Brocquy and Basil Blackshaw. These were purchased primarily in the 1960's and 1970's, at a cost to the Council of £7,233. The total cost of these works came to £14,466.71.

The Arts Council is aware of the potential issues arising from the sale of these works and is in touch with the CEO of the Great Southern Hotel Group in this regard. On my instructions, my Department has also brought the matter to the attention of the CEO of the Dublin Airport Authority and has asked for a report on the matter. I understand that potential vendors are obliged to notify such intended sales to the OPW so that first option on such items may be exercised by the state collecting institutions. The Dublin Airport Authority has written to my Department confirming that it will consult in full with it before any decisions are taken, and in full compliance with all State guidelines.