Dessie Ellis (Dublin North West, Sinn Fein)
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Question 84: To ask the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the way he intends to maximise the potential of community arts projects as an important tool for social inclusion in areas of disadvantage; the contact he has had with other relevant parties in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12484/12]

Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North-West Limerick, Fine Gael)
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I wish to assure the Deputy that I am acutely aware of the beneficial effects of arts in the community, both from the aspect of individual participation and that of community involvement, as well as their potential for impact in addressing social inclusion issues. The Government's priorities for the arts are set out in the Programme for Government. Responsibility for the promotion of the arts at all levels throughout the country is devolved primarily to the Arts Council, as the principal agency through which State funding is channelled to the arts. The 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.

I should also point out that over 80 projects received capital funding under the ACCESS and Arts Capital schemes operated by my Department. These projects - situated in the heart of communities - assist in local arts endeavours and I would urge communities to support and participate in the many and diverse range of activities offered by them throughout the State. Since taking office, I have engaged extensively with the arts community at local and national levels. Following dialogue with local arts officers, a pilot interactive strategy has been put in place, which, I believe, will lead to more co-ordination in arts and culture activities at community and at local level.