Vol. 572 No. 1
148 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the extent to which his Department supports and funds the Arts Council to facilitate the Council's ongoing work and objectives; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22637/03]
149 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the extent to which his Department have fostered, supported or promoted the arts in 2003 whether by way of practical, financial or other support; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22638/03]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 148 and 149 together.
My Department works closely with the agencies operating under its aegis, including the Arts Council, on an ongoing basis and as the need arises, in order to further the objectives of the agencies concerned. In 2003, my Department has allocated aggregate funding of €102.057 million in support for artistic and cultural activities. Funding of €44.1 million has been made available to the Arts Council. A further €38.752 million has been set aside for the national cultural institutions and cultural development generally. The Irish Film Board will receive €10.768 million and the National Gallery's allocation amounts to €8.436 million.
