Vol. 491 No. 1
125 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Education and Science if arts and drama are encouraged in primary schools; if visiting theatre workshops are encouraged; if funding for these visits is available from his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11495/98]
The arts and drama are encouraged in the present curriculum for primary schools. A comprehensive review of this curriculum is now almost complete. Important sections of this revised curriculum will deal with the development of the arts and drama in the schools. Schools do occasionally avail of the services of visiting theatre workshops. Where a financial contribution is necessary for this it is usually met out of school resources. However, some funding is available to support theatre workshops which address the needs of disadvantaged communities. In the current school year, for example, my Department has allocated a total of £60,000 to support theatre companies with productions which focus specifically on issues of relevance to children in disadvantaged areas. In 1997, £15,000 was allocated to a theatre group which focuses on anti-bullying. My Department also supports the Ark in Temple Bar, Dublin by seconding two primary teachers on a full time basis to work with the director of the Ark in organising activities in drama and the arts for children. Schools are encouraged to participate in the activities of the Ark and they do so on a regular basis. Very recently, my Department has become involved, with the Arts Council and the Gulbenkian Foundation, in funding the creation of a schools' liaison officer in the National Theatre (the Abbey).
