asked the Minister for Finance the present position regarding the extension of financial support to dramatic art at national and local level.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dramatic Art Support.
33.
The State already gives substantial aid for dramatic art through subsidies to the Abbey and Gate Theatres in Dublin. Assistance is also given at national and local level through bodies such as An Chomhairle Ealaíon and Bord Fáilte.
Further financial support for the theatre will be provided mainly in two ways. Firstly by the setting up of a new Irish Theatre Company whose main purpose will be to provide a professional acting group which will spend most of its time touring the provinces. This will bring high-quality theatrical performances to these areas and stimulate interest in local amateur groups. Negotiations with representatives of theatre managements and Actors Equity are proceeding and it is hoped that the new company can commence work in the near future.
Secondly, the restructuring of An Chomhairle Ealaíon which was mooted some time ago has been proceeding. So far as dramatic art is concerned, the intention would be that as regards organisation and finance, An Chomhairle will be in a much better position to play a more positive role in encouraging dramatic art generally. The necessary amending legislation to give effect to the proposed changes is at present being prepared.