Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
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Question 53: To ask the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the progress made to date in implementing the recommendations of the National Economic and Social Forum's report on the arts, cultural inclusion and social cohesion; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25660/07]

Séamus Brennan (Dublin South, Fianna Fail)
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The National Economic and Social Forum (NESF)'s Arts, Cultural Inclusion and Social Cohesion report sets out actions to support broader participation in the arts and makes recommendations on creating a more inclusive and cohesive society. This is a timely document, as it presents an evaluation of the current status of the sector and its role in the changing and varying social and cultural landscape we face in the coming years.

It should be noted that the NESF recognises that a substantial amount of worthwhile activity is taking place in the arts sector — much of which is State supported. It highlights the need for the delivery of a high level service in the arts and culture sector in a strategic, appropriate, coordinated and open manner.

In this context, the Government approved the report's recommendation for the establishment of a high-level independently chaired Strategy Committee to consider its recommendations. I have now had the opportunity of reviewing the comprehensive range of recommendations made in this report and I envisage establishing the recommended Committee in the coming weeks.