Ivor Callely
Question:105 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands the position regarding architectural policy; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6656/98]
Written Answers - Architectural Policy.
A discussion document entitled "Developing a Government Policy on Architecture, a Proposed Framework and Discussion of Issues" was published by my predecessor in September 1996. This initiated a public debate on architecture and the role of Government.
In May 1997, the then Government formally adopted the following policy statement on architecture:
In pursuing its Policy on Architecture, the Government will:
1. promote high standards of design and construction in building works for which it is responsible and support the pursuit of high standards of building;
2. develop an organisational framework which facilitates the application of knowledge and skill concerning the built environment;
3. ensure that the architectural heritage is conserved and maintained to a high standard;
4. foster the demand for high quality architecture in the community as a whole;
5. promote the concept of sustainable development;
6. encourage innovation in architecture.
The Government also decided that the Minister for Arts, Culture, Gaeltacht and the Islands would co-ordinate development of individual strategies with appropriate Government Departments within the context of this broad policy objective and would return to Government with specific proposals.
As Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands, I am now establishing an interdepartmental working group, which will be chaired by the principal architect of the Office of Public Works, to initiate and co-ordinate development of individual strategies for submission by me to Government.