As the Deputy will be aware, the Government approved the establishment of an academy for the performing arts, incorporating the following three nodes – a headquarters and significant facilities on a site to be provided on the DCU campus, a Limerick campus developing the existing Irish World Music Centre at UL, and an under-graduate professional dance facility based at the Firkin Crane Dance Development Agency in Cork.
While there have been a number of representations made by interested parties regarding the academy's location, planning for its development is continuing on the basis that it will be located at these three nodes. However, it is envisaged that the academy will develop linkages with providers of performing arts training and education throughout the island. The development of the academy, including the development of such external linkages, will be a matter for its president and governing authority, once appointed.