Jimmy Deenihan
Question:28 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the development of an academy for the performing arts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15489/02]
Written Answers. - Academy for the Performing Arts.
As the Deputy may be aware, in December 1999, the Government approved the establishment of an Academy for the Performing Arts incorporating a headquarters at Dublin City University, a Limerick campus incorporating the Irish World Music Centre at the University of Limerick and an undergraduate professional dance facility based at the Institute for Choreography and Dance at Firkin Crane, Cork. The project was given a capital allocation of some €44 million to develop the new facilities over the period 2000-06.
The interim governing authority was launched by my predecessor, Deputy Woods, on 29 April to drive forward the establishment of the academy. The interim authority is chaired by Ms Carmel Naughton and has 12 other members representing a wide range of experience and expertise to ensure the development of a world class third level institute for the education and training of performing artists in Ireland. The interim governing authority has met on two occasions since being appointed.