Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

19. To ask the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if he envisages funding for his Department will be maintained for the year 2015 at the same levels as the year 2014; the funding priorities he envisages for the new year; if funding for the Heritage Council will be maintained; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24284/14]

Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North-West Limerick, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

As the Deputy is aware, it was announced as part of Budget 2014 that comprehensive reviews of both current and capital expenditure would be undertaken by all Government Departments during 2014. These reviews are conducted on a periodic basis to re-set Ministerial expenditure ceilings in line with emerging Government priorities and will form the basis of the Government's future multi-annual budgetary framework. The reviews are currently ongoing and will be considered by Government later this year, with a view to underpinning expenditure ceilings for 2015 and beyond, as well as clarifying policy options and informing prioritisation decisions arising from the ceilings. Accordingly, it is not possible to say at this stage what the final outcome of Government discussions in this regard will be.

My Department will continue to provide funding for the protection, conservation and development of our built and natural heritage, in so far as resources allow. Decisions on funding for the Heritage Council in 2015 will be subject to the normal budgetary process later this year.