Emer Currie (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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162. To ask the Minister for Culture, Culture, Communications and Sport if he will make a policy statement recognising the economic, societal and culture value of the pub to Ireland. [17317/26]

Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick County, Fine Gael)
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While pubs can function as venues for artistic and cultural events, the economic viability of pubs ultimately is a function of consumer demand and is not a matter for my Department. The Night-Time Economy refers to the diverse social, cultural and economic activity occurring during specified evening and night-time hours. It is a hugely important sector, contributing to our economy and our cultural and creative sectors and it is important that we protect and sustain it. Pubs are dependent on a thriving and well-developed Night-Time Economy and I recognise that the local pub can be a cultural hub in our communities, providing performance spaces and employment opportunities for local artists. Pubs can also provide a space for social connection, particularly in rural communities.

In recognition of the role played by the pub in rural and urban communities my Department has supported positive interventions and pilot initiatives, specifically related to the Night-Time Economy. The Night-Time Economy Support Scheme which was launched in 2022 invited licensed premises such as pubs, to apply for funding of up to €10,000 to run cultural events during off-peak hours, to increase footfall and support for local artists.

In 2023, my Department allocated €2 million in capital funding towards the Noise Mitigation Grant Scheme, which enabled late-night venue owners to get a full, professional acoustic assessment of their venue and implement noise mitigation measures. The aim of this scheme was to better control and reduce sound emissions, especially in those areas where there is a potential impact on residents, while still allowing a vibrant night-time economy to thrive.

Building on this and other previous positive Night-Time Economy Support Schemes, last year I launched a new Scheme with an allocation of €500,000 to help protect and sustain grassroots music venues In Ireland. Grassroots venues are key cultural hubs in our communities. The scheme attracted a large number of applicants indicating strong demand and ultimately, thirty-four venues received funding.

In further recognition of the contribution these vital spaces make to the cultural and creative ecosystem in Ireland, I have allocated €1 million this year towards a second iteration of this Scheme, which I'll be launching in the coming days.

My Department will continue work with other departments, agencies and stakeholders to examine further opportunities to develop and sustain a vibrant, diverse and inclusive night-life across the country.