Bernard J. Durkan
Question:246 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage Gaeltacht and the Islands her proposals to assist in the promotion of the arts in 2002; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7065/02]
Written Answers. - Arts Plan.
The promotion of the arts is a matter in the first instance for the Arts Council, which is a statutory body operating independently of me as Minister on a day to day basis, although funded by my Department.
Total funding for the Arts Council for 2002 is €47.669 million. Over the previous five years I secured for the Arts Council a total of £146.9 million, €186.52 million, which includes £100 million, €126.97, provided for the implementation of the second arts plan 1999-2001. Since I came into office in 1997, funding for the Arts Council has increased by over 75%. This increase in funding underlines my commitment to the arts.
I will shortly publish a new arts Bill, which will provide a more appropriate and contemporary context for the work of the Arts Council and for that of my Department.