Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 10 November 2015
613. Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht her plans to provide for a new Government policy on architecture subsequent to the current policy's expiry; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39574/15]
View answerThe Government Policy on Architecture 2009-2015 was launched in October 2009 and provides the appropriate framework for architectural policy up to 2015 and beyond and is led centrally by the Built Heritage and Architectural Policy Unit in my Department. The policy places an emphasis on sustainable development of the environment and urban design, incorporates architectural heritage in a holistic integrated manner, and encourages and supports high quality modern architecture. The policy complements and supports the Government’s wider economic strategy within the Programme for Government in areas such as built environment research and qualitative place-making. My Department has provided grant assistance to organisations that support the Government policy on Architecture. The focus on awarded grant aid is to support activities that relate directly to the objectives and 45 direct actions within the policy but which are independently run through other organisations/stakeholder groups and which may be assisted by a financial contribution. These include initiatives such as:
- Research, surveys, reviews including those which could contribute to architectural or policy development;
- Promoting an increased appreciation and public awareness of architecture/urban design in Ireland or the rich and unique built heritage environment (exhibitions, conferences, lectures, specific initiatives etc.);
- Increasing awareness and public understanding of the challenges confronting the built environment.
The actions set out in the Government Policy on Architecture 2009-2015 cover a broad spectrum and involve many participants in addition to Government departments and State agencies where applicable.
I have no immediate plans for a new policy. However, my Department will be conducting a “taking stock” exercise on actions completed to date on conclusion of the current policy with a view to having a review carried out which will involve consultation with key stakeholders including educational institutions, professional bodies and organisations devoted to the promotion of architecture. The outcome of such a review will contribute to the determining of any further policies as and when applicable.
