Liz McManus (Wicklow, Labour)
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Question 28: To ask the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he will increase the funding given to Culture Ireland; if he will enable the establishment of a support structure to help the marketing of the arts abroad; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25658/07]

Séamus Brennan (Dublin South, Fianna Fail)
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The funding for Culture Ireland is being considered, along with that of all other agencies under my Department, as part of the annual Estimates process. The importance of the work of Culture Ireland has been recognised during its start up phase by a 50% increase each year since it was established in 2005 with an initial budget of €2m.

The Government approved the establishment of Culture Ireland on a statutory basis earlier this year and my Department is currently working through the legislative process in this regard.

Culture Ireland, in just over two years in existence, has achieved a great deal in the promotion and advancement of Irish arts abroad. Its support for the international presence of Irish artists and arts organisations has created new opportunities for Irish artists and has raised the awareness of Ireland as a global centre of arts, creativity and innovation. This, in turn, will lead to Ireland being recognised as a preferred destination for tourism, trade and investment.