Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 24 Oct 1990

Vol. 402 No. 1

Written Answers. - European City of Culture.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

26 Mr. Quinn asked the Taoiseach if he will outline the programme of events and activities which have been organised to mark Dublin's year as the European City of Culture in 1991; the level of financial support which his Department have allocated to this project; the total amount of private sponsorship which has been pledged; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Gay Mitchell

Question:

27 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Taoiseach if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the list Major Projects and Activities for Dublin's year as European City of Culture in 1991 shows that few additional special events have been planned to date.

The Taoiseach

I propose to take Questions Nos. 26 and 27 together.

I am circulating to Deputies an outline programme of the events and activities to mark Dublin's year as the European City of Culture, 1991. This programme was prepared by the organisers of Dublin 1991 who are publishing a detailed brochure next month.

As Deputies will note from this programme, Dublin 1991 is providing a focus and stimulus for many important and innovative events and initiatives which will be staged in Dublin next year and which will be of lasting benefit to the city. I am satisfied that this will involve many additional special events to mark the year which will permanently intensify the level of cultural activity in the city.

A total amount of £1.25 million has been allocated by my Department from the national lottery to the project. Other public bodies are also making a significant input to the cultural capital activities including Dublin Corporation, Dublin County Council, the Office of Public Works, Bord Fáilte and the Department of the Environment. An allocation from the European Community is also being arranged and over £900,000 sponsorship has been pledged to date from private sources.