John Perry (Sligo-North Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 10: To ask the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the position regarding planning for the Dublin International Art Exhibition 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32303/09]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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Dublin International Art Exhibition was the original working title assigned to a proposal to host an internationally recognised and acclaimed contemporary and modern art event in Dublin, which would showcase excellence in Irish and international art. The appeal of such events elsewhere is evidenced by the success of the Venice and Sydney Biennales, Documenta XII in Germany and Prospect 1 in New Orleans.

This event had originally been considered for 2010 but it is now proposed for the summer of 2011 and is to be known as Dublin Contemporary 2011. The proposal can be broadly described as a major exhibition of leading and emerging Irish and international contemporary art spread across a number of landmark sites in Dublin city centre over a period of up to 12 weeks. It would be the first event of its scale in Ireland and would provide a highlight for cultural tourism in Ireland on a global scale. The project aims to achieve a vibrant recognised international art event and would provide an accessible and tourist friendly route through historical and contemporary Dublin encouraging tourists and residents alike to engage with galleries, museums and cultural spaces. This event is also about monetising our cultural tourism opportunities, especially in the visual arts sphere.

A draft business plan / feasibility study which will include detailed costings is currently being prepared and further consideration will be given to the proposal on completion of this work. Clearly, Government financial support is contingent, inter alia, on the projected state of the Exchequer finances in 2010 and 2011.