Vol. 518 No. 1
54 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage Gaeltacht and the Islands her proposals for a music board of Ireland; the proposed role and functions of the board; when it is likely to be established; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10895/00]
The report of the FORTE taskforce recommended that a music board should be established to promote and develop the indigenous music industry. I am pleased to advise that agreement has been reached with the music industry representatives under the auspices of IBEC, to jointly fund a non-statutory Music Board of Ireland for an initial period of three years, to further promote the industry. Discussions are continuing in relation to specific details about the establishment of the board. It is envisaged that the Music Board of Ireland will be in place by mid summer 2000.
The function of the interim Music Board of Ireland is to act as a forum for the industry to devise and actively promote strategic policies for the development of the music industry and the maximisation of its contribution to the national economy. It will also draw up proposals for legislation to establish the board on a statutory footing.
