Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick East, Labour)
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Question 97: To ask the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he will account for the recent Government decision to make Culture Ireland an independent statutory body; the potential benefits for the arts that will follow from this decision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11736/07]

John O'Donoghue (Kerry South, Fianna Fail)
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The Arts Act 2003 gives the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism responsibility for promoting the arts within and outside of the State, thus recognising the international dimension of my remit.

In recognition of the changed legislative environment, new mechanisms for the promotion and support of Irish art and artists abroad were put in place in February, 2005, when a new non-statutory body (Culture Ireland) was established, under the aegis of my Department.

Since its establishment on a non-statutory basis, Culture Ireland conclusively demonstrated that there is an important and substantial job to be done in this area, and that the optimal way to do it effectively is through a State agency independent of its parent Department. The advice of the Attorney General is that a statutory body is the option which would most closely meet the requirements, i.e., it would have a separate legal identity, it could enter into contracts on its own authority, and have an independent responsibility for disbursement of funds. Accordingly, the Government authorised me to proceed with the preparation of legislation to establish the agency on a statutory basis.

The international context provides a whole additional layer of opportunities for Irish artists. It provides new opportunities for exhibition and performances, and allows for very beneficial cross-fertilisation and sharing of experience and artistic expression with overseas counterparts. Commercially, it opens up new markets that can prove extremely valuable. Effective promotion of Irish arts in the international context also has very significant benefits in promoting Ireland's image abroad, which, in turn, can develop important diplomatic relationships, highlight our profile abroad, and enhance our relations with other peoples and cultures.

The draft heads of legislation for the establishment of Culture Ireland on a statutory basis are currently being prepared in my Department.