Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 3 Dec 2002

Vol. 558 No. 4

Written Answers. - Arts Council.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

286 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he sees a role for his Department in the promotion of the arts; if his Department can provide funding in such circumstances; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24789/02]

Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism (Mr. O'Donoghue)

The Arts Bill, which has completed Second Stage in the Dáil and will go to Committee Stage shortly, provides for the first time a specific definition of my role as Minister with responsibility for the arts. This provides that the Minister of the day shall promote the arts both inside and outside the State.

The Bill provides that the Minister of the day may, in the performance of his or her functions in this context, consult with such Ministers of the Government, public bodies, or other persons, as he or she considers appropriate. The Bill does not propose any change in the long-standing arrangement whereby the Arts Council is the statutory body through which State support for the arts is channelled.