asked the Taoiseach the steps he has taken, since he assumed office, and the measures he hopes to take, to promote greater cultural co-operation and understanding between the communities of Northern Ireland and the Republic.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - North-South Cultural Co-operation.
1.
I intend to take all possible steps to promote a deeper understanding among the different communities in this island of the richness and diversity of our heritage and to encourage cultural co-operation among them in every way, building upon existing co-operation in historical and national monument research, in archival study and between the cultural organisations, especially between the two Arts Councils.
A number of measures are under active consideration at present and any suitable opportunity that arises to achieve the objective the Deputy has in mind will be availed of.
Would the Taoiseach not agree that in the past there has been an appalling neglect of promoting a general and greater awareness of the common cultural heritage between the communities in the North and South? Would the Taoiseach now indicate more fully what steps he hopes to take in this noncontroversial area to promote greater awareness?
I hope to give the Deputy some information later. Even though it is artistic and cultural it does not necessarily mean it is noncontroversial. Very often the world of arts can be as controversial and difficult as any other.
As at Wood Quay.
While I accept what the Taoiseach says to a limited extent, surely there is a common basis for agreement, a common cultural heritage between the two communities, North and South? If the Taoiseach would work at that he would have a basis for some form of agreement between the two communities.
I fully agree with the Deputy. I accept that he is pushing an open door in that regard. If he has any particular personal suggestion I shall be very glad to receive it. I can assure him that at various levels the matter is being very actively pursued.
I thank the Taoiseach.
Does the Taoiseach's reply indicate that he will be encouraging the Arts Council of Northern Ireland and the Arts Council in the Republic to meet more frequently than they have heretofore in order to come forward with detailed proposals to implement the sentiment that the Taoiseach has welcomingly expressed in the House?
I shall certainly encourage as much co-operation between them as possible. There is a fair amount of co-operation between them already. Certainly anything I can do to help in that process I will be delighted to do.
Do the Taoiseach's replies today indicate that there will be more frequent contact between the respective Arts Councils than has already taken place between them?
I hope so, yes.
Would the Taoiseach consider, amongst these proposals, the idea mooted in this House that television and radio signals be beamed in and out of Northern Ireland?
I understand that progress is going ahead in that direction; something of which I would approve very much.