Seán Sherlock (Cork East, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 47: To ask the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the planned potential investment in the area of the arts in the forthcoming years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23604/09]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Government Policy on the Arts is set out in the Programme for Government and further elaborated in my Department's Statement of Strategy.

My policy on the arts is to promote and strengthen the arts in all its forms, increase access to and participation in the arts, and make the arts an integral and valued part of our national life.

In forthcoming years, it is my aim to continue to implement this policy directly through my own Department and to support the Arts Council in its role, working within the financial and other resources available to me.

As the Deputy is aware, under the Arts Act, 2003, the Arts Council is the principal agency through which Exchequer funding is channelled to the arts. It is a statutorily independent body and autonomous in its day-to-day operations.

In addressing the issue of future arts investment, it is necessary to be aware of the transformation over recent years of the increases in the arts funding base and in arts infrastructure which has been provided by way of consistent Exchequer funding.

For instance, since 2002, funding for the Arts Council has increased by 54% from €47.67 million in 2002 to €73.35 million in 2009. Over the period, these investments have helped to transform the profile and appreciation of the arts, to bring them centre stage and make them alive for everyone to enjoy. This expenditure has allowed the Arts Council to fulfil significant elements of its functions, namely, of stimulating public interest in the arts; promoting knowledge, appreciation and practice of the arts, and assisting in improving standards in the arts. The Council has also been facilitated in re-organising itself so as to able to deliver a focused, comprehensive, efficient and strategic service to its clients, audiences and partners nationwide.

My Department has a direct role in the provision of capital grants for arts infrastructure. The Arts and Culture Capital Enhancement Support Scheme (ACCESS) is designed to assist in the provision of high standard arts and culture infrastructural projects. These projects enhance access to all aspects of the arts throughout the country. The programme has been widely acknowledged as a significant intervention in the provision of high quality arts and culture infrastructure. Since 2004 amounts to the value of almost €109m have been paid in respect of arts infrastructure.

Facilities funded to date include integrated arts centres, theatres, galleries, studios and creative and performance spaces. In this manner the Department provides the bulk of capital funding for building and refurbishing arts facilities around the country, while the Arts Council provides the ongoing revenue support for many of the facilities.

Taken together, the expenditure and facilities outlined stand as testament to the Government's commitment to this vital sector for society.