Gerald Nash (Louth, Labour)
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Question 147: To ask the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if he will provide details of the extent of State liability and investment in Dublin Contemporary 2011; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27815/11]

Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North-West Limerick, Fine Gael)
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Dublin Contemporary 2011 (DC2011) is the largest contemporary visual art event of its kind and scale ever held in Ireland. Its mission is to create a dynamic experience of contemporary visual art within the specific cultural context of Dublin, that resonates both locally and globally. Ireland has a unique cultural brand that is globally recognised and Dublin needs to be reinforced as an open, vibrant city that attracts and retains talented people, where creativity and innovation are encouraged and where leading companies want to invest.

DC2011 previewed on 5th September and is due to run until the 31st October. In its first month, it has already attracted much favourable media coverage - both at home and abroad - and it has also been critically well received. Visitor numbers are also understood to be on target. The programme budget for DC2011 is of the order of €4m. This budget is to be met through a mix of revenues from ticket sales and merchandising, sponsorship, philanthropy and Exchequer support. To date in 2011, €1.16m has been paid by my Department in respect of the DC2011 programming budget. Once final costs, revenues and incomes are determined and audited, the full Exchequer contribution to the programming costs will be finalised.