Seán Ó Fearghaíl (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)
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Question 256: To ask the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the arts projects in County Kildare for which his Department has allocated funding in the years 2002 to date in 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33619/06]

John O'Donoghue (Kerry South, Fianna Fail)
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In the past, my Department has provided almost €2.4 million to fund arts and cultural projects in County Kildare, namely the Kildare Library and Arts Centre and the Moat Club in Naas.

The main vehicle for capital funding through my Department is the Arts & Culture Capital Enhancement Support Scheme (ACCESS). Under the first ACCESS scheme €45.7 million was allocated for the development of 44 arts and cultural facilities around the country. The increase in the availability of facilities and the enhancement in their quality has greatly increased access to and participation in the arts for a great many people.

I recently announced a new capital funding scheme — ACCESS II. This new scheme will provide grant aid towards the development of arts and culture infrastructure around the country over the years 2007-2009. Eligible facilities will include integrated arts centres, theatres, galleries, as well as arts studios and creative and performance spaces.

The primary focus of the scheme will be the refurbishment and enhancement of existing arts and culture facilities. Accordingly 70% of the total monies available will be allocated to this area. The remaining 30% of the scheme funds will be available for the development of new facilities.

Applications for ACCESS II will be accepted until November 17th, 2006.