In Ireland, we recognise the potential of the creative industries and particularly their beneficial characteristics. The creative industries now encompass more than the traditional areas of the arts, film, music and literature, and include areas like advertising, as well as the newer industries such as social media, gaming and animation.
As Minister with responsibility for arts, culture and heritage for the whole country, I do not want to single out any part of Dublin, or indeed any other part of the country, as requiring branding as a creative quarter. Of course, Dublin 8 has a number of unique historical, cultural and creative characteristics, but so have many other areas in the country. I have no statutory function in the designation of such areas.
One of the actions I have prioritised as Minister is in relation to encouraging the fostering of creativity in our children and young people. Initiatives have been introduced in our schools to ensure that they develop this very important skill and that there is a broader appreciation of the value of the arts as an instrument to nurture and develop creativity.
The importance of this matter is well recognised internationally. Indeed, during the recent Irish Presidency of the EU, Irish officials worked closely with their EU colleagues on a seven year plan to put in place appropriate policies and a funding framework to drive the Creative Europe programme for the years 2014 to 2020.
In the Irish context, up to relatively recently Ireland may have had a somewhat fragmented approach to the development of the creative industries but, over the last few years, there have been some important initiatives at national and sectoral levels which are fostering a stronger more cohesive approach to this sector.
Innovation Ireland is a report published in March 2010 by an inter-disciplinary group, as a follow-up to the SMART Economy strategy. The report underscores how the arts can be used to drive jobs in the digital economy and creative industries, as well as the vital role of culture in fostering creativity in the education system. It also identifies the scope for cultural creativity and science to work together to re-position technology and innovation in innovative new ways in the public mind, and help re-position artists, culture and creative minds into the centre of innovative businesses.
The report highlights the need amongst employers in innovative industries and businesses for creative thinkers who are culturally aware to drive their business forward. As we shift to a more knowledge-based, services-oriented economy, I believe that Ireland is well placed to lead developments in this area because of its established arts and cultural heritage.
The digital economy has tremendous potential to create new jobs and new growth. Companies in this sector are amongst the fastest growing in the world and have become major brands. The arts and the creative sector also can play an innovative role in positioning Ireland in a new way, particularly when science and arts are brought together to utilise technology in insightful and original ways.
