Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick County, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Department of Culture, Communications and Sport operates four annual grant schemes in support of arts festivals and organisations, - each with particular requirements re eligibility of applications and support levels. Information in relation to these schemes and all allocations made under the schemes are available on the Departmental website. These schemes are:-

• Small Scale festivals and Summer Schools (2025: allocations amounting to €293,252 in respect of 64 successful applications),
• Co-operation with Northern Ireland (2025: allocations amounting to €182,721 in respect of 15 successful applications),
• Mobility of Collections Scheme, (2025: allocations amounting to €34,780 in respect of 2 successful applications),and
• Regional Museums Expansion Scheme
• (2025: allocations amounting to €192,193 in respect of 17 successful applications).

The opening and closing dates for applications are announced through the Department’s Press Office each year. Commencing from 2025, applications were submitted through an online portal that seeks to ensure complete information is provided in a standardised template along with any required supporting material. An assessment panel of three officials was convened to consider each of the applications and make recommendations with regard to eligibility and support. An oversight review is conducted at management level in the Business Unit in relation to conformity and resource availability to prepare the proposal for consideration by the Minister.

The availability of the annual schemes providing support for Arts festivals and organisations does not preclude the possibility of a direct approach to the Department by a body seeking assistance or support in exceptional circumstances. In such cases, procedures similar to the above will be pursued by officials in relation to assessment and to prepare a recommendation for consideration by the Minister. In the event of an allocation of funding, the body will be identified and the support specified in the statement of expenditure on the Departmental website.

I am satisfied that the assessment and funding of arts festivals and organisations is done in an equitable and transparent manner. Nonetheless, I would be grateful to receive any suggestions or concerns the Deputy would wish to convey in relation to this funding in general or relating to a specific instance.