Written answers

Wednesday, 19 May 2010

Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism

Arts Funding

8:00 pm

Photo of David StantonDavid Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 60: To ask the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport her policy regarding the development of drama activities across the country, in particular, of supports for local drama groups; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [20674/10]

Photo of Mary HanafinMary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The Government's policy is to promote and strengthen the arts in all its forms, including drama, to increase access to and participation in the arts, and to make the arts an integral and valued part of our national life. More specific commitments are set out in the Renewed Programme for Government. My policy on the arts is to promote and strengthen the arts in all its forms, including drama, increase access to and participation in the arts, and make the arts an integral and valued part of our national life.

Responsibility for the promotion of the arts at all levels throughout the country, including drama, is primarily devolved to the Arts Council. The Arts Council is the principal agency through which State funding is channelled to the arts. Under the Arts Act, 2003, the general functions of the Council include the following: - - to promote knowledge, appreciation and practice of the arts; - to stimulate public interest in the arts; - to assist in improving standards in the arts. The Arts Council is a statutorily independent body, funded by my Department and independent in its day-to-day operations, including in relation to its funding decisions. Funding for the Arts Council has helped to transform and increase access to the arts and allowed the Arts Council to support artists and arts organisations nationwide. The Government's commitment to the arts is evidenced by its continued support of the work of the Arts Council.

Comments

No comments

Log in or join to post a public comment.