Written Answers Nos. 1-37
12. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the number of hare coursing meetings that have been monitored by the National Parks and Wildlife Service since the beginning of the 2016-17 season; and the resources in place to continue to monitor meetings for 2017. [31008/16]
View answerThe control of live hare coursing, including the operation of individual coursing meetings and managing the use of hares for that activity, is carried out under the Greyhound Industry Act 1958, which is the responsibility of my colleague, the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine. My responsibility relates to the conservation status of the hare.
In August this year, the Department issued licences under the Wildlife Acts to the Irish Coursing Club, covering its affiliated coursing clubs, to capture and tag hares for use at regulated hare coursing meetings for the 2016/17 coursing season, which extends from the end of September 2016 to the end of February 2017. While no meetings have been monitored by officials of the National Parks and Wildlife Service of my Department to date for the 2016/17 season, I should point out that only 8 out of a total of 70 scheduled coursing meetings have been held at this stage.
Hare coursing meetings are monitored, as resources allow, by conservation rangers of the National Parks and Wildlife Service of my Department in order to ensure compliance with the conditions of the licences. A process is under way at present that will allow for the recruitment of additional conservation rangers by my Department over the coming months.
13. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the reason for the underspend in her Department's Vote in 2016 to date; the steps taken to reduce this underspend; if she is hopeful that all her Department's Vote will be spent by the end of 2016; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31102/16]
View answerThe current underspend against profile within my Department's Vote has occurred principally because of delays in the drawdown of funding in relation to
- the Arts Programme in respect of certain once-off Decade of Centenary projects; and
- the Rural and Regional Programme that transferred to my Department in June.
The Decade of Centenary projects where there have been some delays in drawdown are part of the ‘Permanent Reminders’ component of the Ireland 2016 Centenary Programme. They included Richmond Barracks, the new cultural centre at Pearse’s Cottage at Ros Muc and the Tenement Museum in Henrietta Street. All of these are now either completed or very close to completion, and will take up all of their planned 2016 allocation by the end of this year. There were also unavoidable delays in some other cases – for example, the National Monument at 14-17 Moore Street and the major redevelopment at the National Archives. While some progress has been made on these projects, the full expected drawdown of funds will not now occur this year.
With regard to the Rural and Regional Programme, the main delay in drawdown is in relation to the LEADER Programme and is due to the fact that the new programme has only recently commenced.
All expenditure within my Department's Vote continues to be carefully monitored to ensure the best use of available financial resources. Public Financial Procedures provide that a maximum of 10% of the capital envelope of a Vote may be carried over by way of deferred surrender to the following year for spending in that year on priority capital programmes. For my Department, this means that a maximum of just over €13½ million in capital can be carried over into 2017, subject to the approval of the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform.
It is too early to accurately forecast the end of year outturn at this point in time but no savings beyond those which can be carried forward by deferred surrender into 2017 are envisaged at present.
14. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the reason the arts budget was cut by 16%, amounting to €30 million in budget 2017, taking into account the huge benefits the arts provide for island, rural and Gaeltacht communities and the impact this will have on tourism development in County Donegal; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31105/16]
View answerI am glad to report, as stated earlier, that I have retained the majority of the €18 million current funding which was provided for the 2016 Commemorations for reallocation to arts and cultural purposes within my Department’s vote. It will therefore become part of the baseline for the Arts division of the Department, meaning it will be available for future years.
The Deputy may wish to note that Budget 2017 will include an additional €5 million for the Arts Council, an 8% increase in its annual budget; increased funding for all of the National Cultural Institutions; an increase of €2 million for the Irish Film Board and €1 million for Culture Ireland as well as an additional €1 million to the Heritage Council. I have also obtained a new funding stream of €5m for the implementation of a Culture 2025/Ireland 2016 Legacy Programme which will allow me to build on the positive legacy of the Ireland 2016 Centenary Programme. I will be announcing details of this new initiative shortly.
This represents real and substantial funding increases across the arts and cultural centre and has been welcomed across the sector. Indeed much of the funding initiatives announced in the 2017 budget should have a real impact on communities, artists and arts organisations across the country including in the Deputy's constituency of Donegal.
It should be noted that the majority of the €49m allocation to my Department to provide for the Commemorative Programme in 2016 went towards a series of capital projects, including the new visitor centre at the GPO, Richmond Barracks, the Kevin Barry Rooms at the National Concert Hall and the Athenaeum in Wexford.
Now that these projects have been completed, the capital funding provided for them will not be repeated in 2017. These projects will, of course, continue and go on to leave a positive lasting legacy for the people of Ireland.
All these measures for supporting culture re-affirm the commitment of this Government to progressively increase funding for the arts as the economy improves, as set out in the Programme for a Partnership Government.
15. Deputy Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs her plans for the protection of the Georgian graving docks in the Grand Canal Basin; and if she will make a commitment to safeguard and improve the site, with a particular focus on Georgian heritage conservation. [31137/16]
View answerThe graving docks in the Grand Canal Basin are located in the site known as City Block 19. I am advised by Waterways Ireland that this site is being considered for development in partnership with the private sector. Development will be in accordance with the North Lotts & Grand Canal Dock Strategic Development Zone (SDZ) Planning Scheme for the area.
The SDZ outlines the nature and extent of proposed developments permissible within this site with a use mix of 40% residential; 30% commercial and 30% community. Waterways Ireland believes there is an opportunity, in how the community element of the planning designation for the site is delivered, to celebrate and sustain the maritime and inland waterways heritage of the wider area and the graving docks.
The Waterways Ireland Action Plan for Grand Canal Dock and Spencer Dock sets out the body’s proposals to ensure that both Docks are developed to deliver their full potential to the city of Dublin and to the wider canal network. The plan is available on the Waterways Ireland website at: http://www.waterwaysireland.org/Pages/Product-Development-Studies.aspx.
Waterways Ireland has recently appointed a Programme Manager to drive forward delivery of this Action Plan and is committed to delivering the Grand Canal and Spencer Docks as amenities in the city, with the maximum recreational benefit to local people and visitors alike.
16. D'fhiafraigh Deputy Bríd Smith den Aire Ealaíon, Oidhreachta, Gnóthaí Réigiúnacha, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta an bhfuil sí ag diúltú maoiniú a dhéanamh ar an bplean infheistíochta, a comhaontaíodh idir 80 grúpa Gaeilge agus Gaeltachta, Údarás na Gaeltachta agus Foras na Gaeilge san áireamh, ós rud é go bhfuil sé soiléir ón mbuiséad nach bhfuil na hacmhainní cuí á gcur ar fáil; agus an ndéanfaidh sí ráiteas ina thaobh. [31146/16]
View answerMar is eol don Teachta, is tríd an phróiseas meastacháin agus cáinaisnéise a dhéantar leithdháileadh ar an soláthar airgid a chuirtear ar fáil ar bhonn bliantúil do mo Roinnse agus, go deimhin, do na Ranna Rialtais go léir. Sna Meastacháin do 2017, a d’fhoilsigh an tAire Caiteachais Poiblí agus Athchóirithe le deireanas, tá leithdháileadh de €46.736m ina iomláine don chlár Gaeilge, Gaeltachta agus Oileán i gcomparáid le €51.21m do 2016. Don chuid is mó, baineann an difríocht sa dá fhigiúr le laghdú ar an leithdháileadh caipitil i ndáil le hIonad Chultúrtha an Phiarsaigh i Ros Muc agus na hoibreacha forbartha ar Ché Inis Oírr.
É sin ráite, tá suim bhreise de €2.25m san iomlán curtha ar fáil i mBuiséad 2017 do Chlár Gaeilge, Gaeltacht agus Oileánda mo Roinne.
Maidir le hÚdarás na Gaeltachta, bhí €1m breise i maoiniú caipitil aonuaire faighte mar chuid de Mheastacháin Athbhreithnithe 2016. Tá sé seo coinnithe don bhliain seo chugainn, rud a chiallaíonn gurb é €6.687m an bunlíne nua caipitil i mBuiséad 2017 d’Údarás na Gaeltachta, €1m níos airde ná an bunlíne i mBuiséad 2016. Anuas air sin, tá allúntas breise de €2.4m i gcaipitil á chur ar fáil agam don Údarás in 2016. Leanfaidh mé orm ag lorg maoiniú caipitil breise don Údarás sa tréimhse amach romhainn.
Maidir le caiteachas reatha de, cuirfidh an tsuim bhreise de €1.25m a bheidh ar fáil don Ghaeilge agus Ghaeltacht faoi Bhuiséad 2017 ar chumas mo Roinne tuilleadh acmhainní a chur i dtreo na Straitéise 20-Bliain don Ghaeilge, an próiseas pleanála teanga, na scéimeanna tacaíochta Gaeltachta ar nós Scéim na bhFoghlaimeoirí Gaeilge agus na grúpaí pobail atá á maoiniú ag Údarás na Gaeltachta.
Ar ndóigh, is soláthar airgid sealadach atá curtha ar leataobh ón Státchiste trí phróiseas na Meastachán sa dlínse seo d’Fhoras na Gaeilge mar áisíneacht den bhforas trasteorann, An Foras Teanga. Ar ndóigh, bíonn cómhaoiniú ó thuaidh agus ó dheas i gceist do na forais trasteorann uile agus is í an Chomhairle Aireachta Thuaidh Theas a cheadaíonn an buiséad do na forais sin, Foras na Gaeilge san áireamh.
Cé nach miste a admháil gur plean uaillmhianach atá curtha le chéile ag na grúpaí Gaeilge agus Gaeltachta - atá ag lorg ollmhaoiniú breise thart ar €5m in 2017 agus €30m thar an tréimhse 2018-2019 - tig leis an Teachta glacadh leis go leanfaidh mé, feadh mo chumais, ag lorg acmhainní breise don earnáil Gaeilge agus Gaeltachta, laistigh den oll-sholáthar airgeadais atá ar fáil don Rialtas.
17. D'fhiafraigh Deputy Catherine Connolly den Aire Ealaíon, Oidhreachta, Gnóthaí Réigiúnacha, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta cé mhéid airgid a chuir an Rialtas ar fáil d'Údarás na Gaeltachta sna blianta 2015 agus 2016 agus i mBuiséad 2017; agus an ndéanfaidh sí ráiteas ina thaobh. [31149/16]
View answerFuarthas €1m breise i maoiniú caipitil aonuaire d’Údarás na Gaeltachta mar chuid de Mheastacháin Athbhreithnithe 2016. Tá sé seo coinnithe don bhliain seo chugainn, rud a chiallaíonn gurb é €6.687m an bunlíne nua caipiteal i mBuiséad 2017 d’Údarás na Gaeltachta, €1m níos airde ná an bunlíne i mBuiséad 2016. Anuas air sin, tá allúntas breise de €2.4m i gcaipiteal á chur ar fáil agam don Údarás i 2016. Leanfaidh mé orm ag lorg maoiniú caipitil breise don Údarás sa tréimhse amach romhainn.
Tá na sonraí airgeadais don treimhse 2015-17 léirithe san tábla thíos.
|
- |
Airgeadais |
Airgeadais |
Airgeadais |
Airgeadais |
Airgeadais |
Airgeadais |
|
C6 – Reatha (Riarachán) |
8,798 |
- |
8,823 |
8,958 |
- |
|
|
C7 - Reatha (Teangabhunaithe) |
3,000 |
- |
3,000 |
3,250 |
- |
|
|
C8 – Caipitil (Bunlíne) |
- |
5,687 |
5,687 |
- |
6,687 |
|
|
Meastacháin Athbhreithnithe (REV) |
- |
1,000 |
1,000 |
- |
- |
|
|
Allúntas Breise |
- |
- |
- |
2,400 |
- |
- |
|
Údarás na Gaeltachta |
2015 Reatha €000 |
2015 Caipitil €000 |
2016 Reatha €000 |
2016 Caipitil €000 |
2017 Reatha €000 |
2017 Caipitil €000 |
|
Iomlán |
11,798 |
6,687 |
11,823 |
9,087 |
12,208 |
6,687 |
18. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs her plans to promote the Irish music industry; the other Departments she liaises with to advance this agenda; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31159/16]
View answerThe Government appreciates the importance of the cultural and creative industries to Ireland, including the music industry. Under the Arts Act 2003, primary responsibility for the promotion and support of the arts, including music, throughout the country is devolved to the Arts Council.
In this regard, I am pleased that I secured significant additional funding for the Arts Council as part of Budget 2017, which will see an increase in its allocation of €5m, or 8%. This increase will enable the Council to enhance support to artists and arts organisations around the country, including musicians, in line with its strategy statement, Making Great Art Work, which prioritises support for the artist and public engagement.
In addition, my Department, through Culture Ireland, provides supports for Irish artists and musicians to travel abroad and develop their careers. I am pleased that I have increased the annual baseline funding for Culture Ireland from €2.5m in 2016 to €3.5m in 2017.
My Department also provides support for music through its funding of the Music Capital Scheme, which is delivered by Music Network, as well as providing significant funding to Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, the largest organisation in the State involved in the preservation and promotion of Irish traditional music.
The IMRO report, entitled The Socio-Economic Contribution of Music to the Irish Economy, highlights the impressive contribution the music industry makes to the Irish economy. The report contains a broad range of recommendations for which several Ministers have responsibility. The broader issue of cultural policy is also considered in the draft Framework Policy Éire Ildánach/Culture 2025,which was forwarded to the Oireachtas Committee on Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs in July. I will be happy to consider any response which the Committee makes to the draft document.
19. Deputy John Paul Phelan asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the status of the town and village renewal scheme; when she expects to announce successful applicants; her plans for the scheme in 2017; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31161/16]
View answerOn 9th August this year, I launched the Town and Village Renewal Scheme as part of the Government’s programme to support rural development. I have allocated €10 million in capital funding for the scheme this year – a significant increase on the €4m baseline allocation in my Department’s Vote for 2016. Local Authorities, in conjunction with local communities and businesses, were each invited to submit up to 8 proposals to my Department by the end of September for approval.
A total of 172 applications were received under the scheme and my officials are currently assessing these applications. The assessments will be completed by the end of October and the successful projects will be announced shortly after that.
I have secured increased funding of €12 million for an enhanced Town and Village Renewal scheme as part of Budget 2017 – a trebling of the 2016 baseline allocation of €4m. Under the 2017 scheme, I intend to run a pilot to encourage increased residential occupancy in town and village centres. Details of this scheme are being finalised by my officials.
The Town and Village Renewal scheme is just one of a range of measures in the Programme for a Partnership Government which will support rural development. I am currently developing an Action Plan for Rural Development, which will act as an overarching structure for the co-ordination and implementation of initiatives across Government that will benefit rural Ireland. My objective is to publish the Action Plan before the end of the year.
20. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the amount of money that was made available to counties under the town and village renewal scheme in tabular form; specifically which towns and villages; of those funds made available, the proportion that was used; the review process and analysis in place for the effectiveness of the scheme; the results of such a review; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31152/16]
View answerOn 9th August this year, I launched the Town and Village Renewal Scheme as part of the Government’s programme to support rural development. I allocated €10 million in capital funding for the scheme this year - a significant increase on the €4m baseline allocation in my Department’s Vote for 2016 - with €380,000 available to each county. The scheme is administered through the Local Authorities which were each invited, in consultation with local communities and businesses, to submit up to 8 proposals to my Department by the end of September for approval.
Up to 85% of the total project cost will be provided in grant aid for approved projects. The minimum grant payable is €20,000; the maximum grant is €100,000.
A total of 172 applications for funding were received by my Department under the scheme and my officials are currently assessing these applications. The assessments will be completed by the end of October and the successful projects will be announced shortly after that. Funding to all approved projects will be released once the assessments are complete.
A full evaluation of the scheme will take place once the approved projects have been completed.
I should mention that I have secured increased funding of €12 million for an enhanced Town and Village Renewal scheme as part of Budget 2017 – a trebling of the 2016 baseline allocation of €4m. Under the 2017 scheme, I intend to run a pilot to encourage increased residential occupancy in town and village centres. Details of this scheme are being finalised by my officials.
21. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs her views on a matter (details supplied) with regard to saving the post office network, which is under threat at present (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31013/16]
View answerThe postal sector has been undergoing systemic change both nationally and internationally in recent years, with the increased use of electronic communications leading to the decline in core mail volumes year on year.
In recognition of this changing business environment, the Post Office Network Business Development Group, chaired by Mr Bobby Kerr, was established in late 2014 to examine the potential for new and existing Government services to be transacted through the post office network and to identify new business opportunities for the network.
The final report of the Post Office Network Business Development Group, which was published in January of this year, made a number of recommendations to support the future sustainability of post offices. These include recommendations in relation to the renewal of the post office network, the development of a basic payment account, the provision of motor tax services, and the creation of hubs around which local economic and social activity could revolve. The report also recommended that An Post should, following appropriate consultation with postmasters and others, review and amend the five-year strategy for the post office network.
A number of Working Groups have been established to progress the recommendations of the Post Office Network Business Development Group, including through the establishment of a Network Renewal Implementation Group, which is being independently chaired by Mr Kerr. This Group is examining the number and spatial distribution of post offices, branch modernisation, the streamlining of products and services, postmaster payments and contracts, and training and qualifications for post office employees.
I have separately established the Post Office Hub Working Group to identify potential models under which the post offices could act as community hubs, especially in rural areas. My officials are also examining the potential for the post offices to deliver services such as motor tax payments and a basic payment account.
Minister Humphreys and I have met with Minister Varadkar to emphasise the important role that his Department plays in the viability of rural post offices. It was clear from our discussions that Minister Varadkar fully appreciates the significance of that role.
22. D'fhiafraigh Deputy Peadar Tóibín den Aire Ealaíon, Oidhreachta, Gnóthaí Réigiúnacha, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta cé mhéad scéim teanga atá séanta aici. [31133/16]
View answerMar is eol don Teachta, tá na forálacha a bhaineann le scéimeanna a dhaingniú sonraithe in Acht na dTeangacha Oifigiúla 2003. Maidir le dualgas an Aire i dtaca le scéim a dhaingniú, forálann alt 14(1) den Acht mar a leanas: "Ar chomhlacht poiblí do thíolacadh dréacht-scéime don Aire, féadfaidh an tAire, tar éis dul i gcomhairle le cibé daoine eile lena n-áirítear cibé Aire eile (más ann) den Rialtas a measfaidh an tAire gur chóir dul i gcomhairle leo, agus le toiliú cheann an chomhlachta phoiblí lena mbaineann, an dréacht-scéim a dhaingniú gan leasú nó fara cibé leasuithe is cuí leis nó léi."
Ón uair a tháinig an tAcht i bhfeidhm, tá dul chun cinn céimnithe déanta chun scéimeanna teanga a dhaingniú. Go dáta, tá 115 scéim teanga i bhfeidhm, a chlúdaíonn 118 comhlacht poiblí, agus tá plé gníomhach ar siúl le 126 comhlacht eile.
Ar ndóigh, tá sé aitheanta go bhfuil dúshláin ag baint leis an phróiseas chun scéimeanna teanga a aontú, go háirithe sa chomhthéacs reatha ina bhfuil brú fós ar acmhainní. Bíonn comhoibriú dearfach agus plé gníomhach idir mo Roinnse agus na comhlachtaí poiblí nó páirtithe leasmhara eile a bhíonn i mbun dréachtscéimeanna a ullmhú. Tá an nósmhaireacht ann go mbíonn idirphlé cuimsitheach curtha i gcrích idir mo Roinn agus an comhlacht poiblí sula ndaingnítear aon scéim teanga ar leith. Sa chomhthéacs sin, ní raibh gá le scéim a shéanadh nó a dhiúltú go dáta.
23. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the specific measures she is taking to maintain the post office network; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21625/16]
View answerThe post office network includes approximately 1,130 post offices, of which 51 are owned by An Post, with the remainder being independently contracted to An Post and often co-located with other retail units.
The postal sector has been undergoing systemic change both nationally and internationally in recent years, with the increased use of electronic communications leading to the decline in core mail volumes year on year. In recognition of this changing business environment, the Post Office Network Business Development Group, chaired by Mr Bobby Kerr, was established in late 2014 to examine the potential for new and existing Government services to be transacted through the post office network and to identify new business opportunities for the network.
The final report of the Post Office Network Business Development Group, which was published in January of this year, made a number of recommendations to support the future sustainability of post offices. These include recommendations in relation to the renewal of the post office network, the development of a basic payment account, the provision of motor tax services, and the creation of hubs around which local economic and social activity could revolve. The report also recommended that An Post should, following appropriate consultation with postmasters and others, review and amend the five-year strategy for the post office network.
A number of Working Groups have been established to progress the recommendations of the Post Office Network Business Development Group, including through the establishment of a Network Renewal Implementation Group, which is being independently chaired by Mr Kerr. This Group is examining the number and spatial distribution of post offices, branch modernisation, the streamlining of products and services, postmaster payments and contracts, and training and qualifications for post office employees.
I have separately established the Post Office Hub Working Group to identify potential models under which the post offices could act as community hubs, especially in rural areas. My officials are also examining the potential for the post offices to deliver services such as motor tax payments and a basic payment account.
The Government is, therefore, taking a range of measures to support the post office network to adapt to the changed business environment in which it operates. The network will, however, continue to operate within the context of An Post’s commercial mandate.
24. D'fhiafraigh Deputy Catherine Connolly den Aire Ealaíon, Oidhreachta, Gnóthaí Réigiúnacha, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta an féidir léi soiléiriú agus míniú a thabhairt maidir leis an laghdú 9% ó thaobh na teanga, na Gaeltachta agus na n-oileán de; cé na heagraíochtaí agus na scéimeanna a bheidh thíos leis an laghdú seo; agus an ndéanfaidh sí ráiteas ina thaobh. [31148/16]
View answerTá suim bhreise de €2.25m san iomlán curtha ar fáil i mBuiséad 2017 do Chlár Gaeilge, Gaeilge agus Oileánda mo Roinne.
Maidir le hÚdarás na Gaeltachta, bhí €1m breise i maoiniú caipitil aonuaire faighte mar chuid de Mheastacháin Athbhreithnithe 2016. Tá sé seo coinnithe don bhliain seo chugainn, rud a chiallaíonn gurb é €6.687m an bunlíne nua caipitil i mBuiséad 2017 d’Údarás na Gaeltachta, €1m níos airde ná an bunlíne i mBuiséid 2016. Anuas air sin, tá allúntas breise de €2.4m i gcaipiteal á chur ar fáil agam don Údarás in 2016. Leanfaidh mé orm ag lorg maoiniú caipitil breise don Údarás sa tréimhse amach romhainn.
Maidir le caiteachas reatha de, cuirfidh an tsuim bhreise de €1. 25m a bheidh ar fáil don Ghaeilge agus Ghaeltacht faoi Bhuiséad 2017 ar chumas mo Roinne tuilleadh acmhainní a chur i dtreo na Straitéise 20-Bliain don Ghaeilge, an próiseas pleanála teanga, na scéimeanna tacaíochta Gaeltachta ar nós Scéim na bhFoghlaimeoirí Gaeilge agus na grúpaí pobail atá á maoiniú ag Údarás na Gaeltachta.
Sna Meastacháin do 2017, a d’fhoilsigh an tAire Caiteachais Phoiblí agus Athchóirithe le deireanas, tá leithdháileadh de €46.736m ina iomláine don chlár Gaeilge, Gaeltachta agus Oileán i gcomparáid le €51.21m do 2016. Don chuid is mó, baineann an difríocht sa dá fhigiúr le laghdú ar an leithdháileadh caipitil le haghaidh 2017. Bhí leithdháileadh de €6m ar fáil in 2016 d’oibreacha forbartha ar Ché Inis Oírr - nach raibh réidh le tosú i mbliana - ach is suim €2m atá curtha ar fáil do 2017. Táim sásta gur leor an leithdháileadh sin chun an tionscadal a bhrú ar aghaidh in 2017 agus, ar ndóigh, beidh leithdháileadh eile ar fáil don tionscadal in 2018. Chomh maith leis sin, bhí soláthar caipitil de €1.9m curtha ar fáil i meastacháin 2016 chun Ionad Chultúrtha an Phiarsaigh i Ros Muc a fhorbairt. Beidh an togra sin críochnaithe i mbliana agus níl gá le soláthar a dhéanamh ina leith in 2017.
25. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the status of the arts in education initiative; the funding that has been provided by her Department for it each year since it was launched; the funding being allocated for it in 2017 by her Department, with particular regard to local arts in education initiatives; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31155/16]
View answerI am firmly committed to continuing the work of the ongoing partnership between the Department of Education and Skills, my own Department and the Arts Council, in line with the Arts in Education Charter. Indeed, the Programme for a Partnership Government commits to the continued implementation of the Arts in Education Charter. The arts in education remit is being achieved largely through existing and evolving structures, such as education centres and local authority arts Departments, with funding provided by my Department and the Department of Education and Skills.
In 2014, capital support of €29,000 was given towards the setting up of a portal which provides the platform through which good collaboration practice in arts in education and arts education is supported. This is the key national digital resource of arts and education practice in Ireland.
In 2015, support from my Department totalled €129,000, which included a payment of €60,000 to the National Association of Principals and Assistant Principals for its work in arts in education.
The funding being provided by my Department for 2016 is just over €68,000. I have also recently approved a further allocation of €30,000 for the National Association of Principals and Assistant Principals.
The allocation of funds for 2017 is currently being considered in consultation with relevant partners to the Arts in Education Charter.
Direct support for the arts is, of course, primarily a matter for the Arts Council operating under the provisions of the Arts Act 2003. The Arts Council’s ten-year strategy Making Great Art Work places specific emphasis on the need to plan and provide for children and young people and also commits to working to achieve full implementation of the Arts in Education Charter. The Arts Council contributes funding to a number of organisations to assist in the delivery of arts in education projects in schools. These include Poetry Ireland's Writers in Schools Scheme, where writers and storytellers visit primary and post-primary schools, as well as the Bringing to Book Artist-in-Residence Scheme, a Children's Books Ireland project.
26. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the role she envisages for post offices in rural Ireland in the future. [31134/16]
View answerThe post office network plays an important role in serving the needs of business and domestic customers alike. However, the postal sector has been undergoing systemic change both nationally and internationally in recent years, with the increased use of electronic communications leading to the decline in core mail volumes year on year.
In recognition of this changing business environment, the Post Office Network Business Development Group, chaired by Mr Bobby Kerr, was established in late 2014 to examine the potential for new and existing Government services to be transacted through the post office network and to identify new business opportunities for the network.
The final report of the Post Office Network Business Development Group, which was published in January of this year, made a number of recommendations to support the future sustainability of post offices. These include recommendations in relation to the renewal of the post office network, the development of a basic payment account, the provision of motor tax services, and the creation of hubs around which local economic and social activity could revolve. The report also recommended that An Post should, following appropriate consultation with postmasters and others, review and amend the five-year strategy for the post office network.
The Programme for a Partnership Government commits to acting on the recommendations in the report of the Post Office Network Business Development Group. A number of Working Groups have been established to progress the recommendations, including through the establishment of a Network Renewal Implementation Group, which is being independently chaired by Mr Kerr. This Group is examining the number and spatial distribution of post offices, branch modernisation, the streamlining of products and services, postmaster payments and contracts, and training and qualifications for post office employees.
I have separately established the Post Office Hub Working Group to identify potential models under which the post offices could act as community hubs, especially in rural areas. My officials are also examining the potential for the post offices to deliver services such as motor tax payments and a basic payment account.
The Government is, therefore, taking a range of measures to support the post office network to adapt to the changed business environment in which it operates. The network will, however, continue to operate within the context of An Post’s commercial mandate.
27. Deputy Peter Burke asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the status of the town and village renewal scheme; the number of applications received in respect of towns and villages in counties Longford and Westmeath; when she expects to announce successful applicants; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31138/16]
View answerI launched the Town and Village Renewal Scheme on 9th August this year, as part of the Government’s programme to support rural development.
The scheme is administered through the Local Authorities who were each invited, in consultation with local communities and businesses, to submit up to 8 proposals to my Department by the end of September for approval. A total of €380,000 is available to each Local Authority under the scheme to cover their proposals. Up to 85% of the total project cost will be provided in grant aid for approved projects. The minimum grant payable is €20,000; the maximum grant is €100,000.
A total of 172 applications for funding were received by my Department under the Town and Village Renewal Scheme and my officials are currently assessing these applications. The assessments will be completed by the end of October and the successful projects will be announced shortly after that.
I can confirm that 8 applications were received in respect of towns and villages in Co. Longford and 7 applications were received in respect of towns and villages in Co. Westmeath.
28. Deputy Tony McLoughlin asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the number of applications received in respect of towns and villages in County Sligo under the town and village renewal scheme; when she expects to announce successful applicants; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31184/16]
View answerI launched the Town and Village Renewal Scheme on 9th August this year, as part of the Government’s programme to support rural development.
The scheme is administered through the Local Authorities who were each invited, in consultation with local communities and businesses, to submit up to 8 proposals to my Department by the end of September for approval. A total of €380,000 is available to each Local Authority under the scheme to cover their proposals. Up to 85% of the total project cost will be provided in grant aid for approved projects. The minimum grant payable is €20,000; the maximum grant is €100,000.
A total of 172 applications for funding were received by my Department under the Town and Village Renewal Scheme and my officials are currently assessing these applications. The assessments will be completed by the end of October and the successful projects will be announced shortly after that.
I can confirm that 4 applications were received in respect of towns and villages in Co. Sligo.
29. Deputy Martin Kenny asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if she is aware that the two former executives of Údarás na Gaeltachta who handled the sale of Arramara Teoranta to a company (details supplied) were then employed by the company; if the sale was completed by ministerial order; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21284/16]
View answerThe sale of Údarás na Gaeltachta's shares in Arramara Teo to the company referred to by the Deputy was approved by the board of Údarás on 1 March 2013, subject to Ministerial approval being obtained and legal details being agreed. Following an assessment of the proposal, Ministerial approval for the sale was granted on 29 July 2013, subject to a number of specific conditions being fulfilled. I am advised that the sale of Arramara Teo was concluded on 7 May 2014 and that Údarás na Gaeltachta is satisfied that the conditions laid down have been fully complied with. No Ministerial Order was required to complete the sale.
With regard to the matter raised in relation to former employees of Údarás na Gaeltachta, these are operational management issues which are the responsibility of Údarás and I have asked the Chief Executive to respond directly to the Deputy within the time frame set out in Standing Orders.
30. Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if she will explain the 9% reduction of funding in the 2017 Estimates for the Irish language, Gaeltacht and the islands programme from €51,206,000 to €46,736,000; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31014/16]
View answerAn additional allocation of €2.25m in total was provided in Budget 2017 for the Irish Language, Gaeltacht and Islands Programme.
With regard to Údarás na Gaeltachta, an additional €1m in once-off capital funding had been secured as part of the 2016 Revised Estimates. This has been retained for next year, which means that €6.687m is the new capital baseline in Budget 2017 for Údarás na Gaeltachta – an increase of €1m on the baseline in Budget 2016. In addition, I have secured an additional allocation of €2.4m for Údarás for capital projects in 2016. I will continue to seek additional capital resources for Údarás over the coming period.
With regard to current funding, the additional amount of €1.5m provided in Budget 2017 for the Irish language and the Gaeltacht will enable my Department to allocate extra resources to the implementation of the 20-Year Strategy for the Irish Language, the language planning process, Gaeltacht support schemes such as the Irish Language Colleges and Gaeltacht community groups funded by Údarás na Gaeltachta.
The Budget Estimates for 2017, which were published recently by my colleague, the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, contain an allocation of €46.736m in total for programme expenditure on the Irish Language, the Gaeltacht and the Islands. This compares to a budget of €51.21 million for 2016. The reduction is mainly attributable to a reduction in the capital allocation in 2017. There was a €6 million allocation in 2016 for development works on Inis Oírr pier – which were not ready to proceed this year – and a sum of €2 million is being provided for 2017. I am satisfied this will be sufficient to advance the development in 2017 and, of course, a further allocation will be made to the project in 2018. In addition, the 2016 Estimates included an allocation of €1.9 million for Ionad Cultúrtha an Phiarsaigh in Ros Muc. This project will be completed this year and will not require a financial allocation in 2017.
31. Deputy John Paul Phelan asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the status of the REDZ scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31162/16]
View answerFollowing on from the pilot Rural Economic Development Zones (REDZ) initiative in 2015, I launched a new phase of the REDZ initiative on 21 September 2016. A total of €5 million has been allocated under REDZ 2016, compared to an allocation of €3.8 million in 2015.
REDZ are functional, rather than administrative, geographic areas that reflect the spatial patterns of local economic activity and development. They are, in effect, sub-county zones within which most people live and work. The central objective of the REDZ model is to utilise the synergies and interdependencies between rural towns and their outlying areas to generate local economic activity.
The 2016 REDZ scheme will provide funding for projects of differing scale and ambition that share the mutual objective of supporting economic development in rural areas. The scheme will also encourage collaboration between Local Authorities on larger projects.
Full and detailed information regarding the scheme was sent to all Local Authorities in early October with a view to receiving application by mid-November and making the funding available to approved applications by early December.
32. D'fhiafraigh Deputy Aindrias Moynihan den Aire Ealaíon, Oidhreachta, Gnóthaí Réigiúnacha, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta an bhfuil a Roinn ag athnuachan seanscéimeanna trí na gnéithe is dúshlánaí a bhaint agus, mar sin, an bhfuil a Roinn ag simpliú na seanscéimeanna sin. [31144/16]
View answer40. D'fhiafraigh Deputy Aindrias Moynihan den Aire Ealaíon, Oidhreachta, Gnóthaí Réigiúnacha, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta cé mhéid scéim Gaeilge atá comhaontaithe ag a Roinn faoi Acht na dTeangacha Oifigiúla, 2003 le heagraíochtaí éagsúla go dtí seo i mbliana agus cé mhéid scéim Gaeilge atá fós le hathnuachan. [31145/16]
View answerTáim chun Ceisteanna Uimh. 32 agus 40 a thógáil le chéile.
Tá próiseas leanúnach ar siúl faoi Acht na dTeangacha Oifigiúla 2003 chun líon agus caighdeán na seirbhísí i nGaeilge a chuireann comhlachtaí poiblí ar fáil a fheabhsú. Aithníodh ón tús gur próiseas forchéimnitheach a bheadh i gceist le feidhmiú an Achta, ag tógáil céimeanna de réir a chéile le comhoibriú agus le dea-thoil na bpáirtithe leasmhara éagsúla.
Ag díriú go sonrach ar athnuachan na scéimeanna teanga, tá mo Roinn lán-tiomanta na gealltanais a neartú agus a láidriú sna scéimeanna teanga chun na seirbhísí atá ar fáil trí mheán na Gaeilge a fheabhsú. Ar ndóigh, tá sé aitheanta go bhfuil dúshláin ag baint leis an phróiseas chun scéimeanna teanga a aontú, go háirithe sa chomhthéacs reatha ina bhfuil brú fós ar acmhainní.
Maidir le haontú scéimeanna teanga atá faoin Acht, is fúmsa, mar Aire, atá sé scéimeanna teanga a dhaingniú le comhlachtaí poiblí. Go dáta i mbliana, tá 15 scéim teanga daingnithe agus ina iomlán tá 115 scéim teanga i bhfeidhm, a chlúdaíonn 118 comhlacht poiblí. Clúdaíonn na scéimeanna teanga sin mórchuid na gcomhlachtaí poiblí a mbíonn plé idirghníomhach ag an phobal leo ar bhonn rialta, lena n-áirítear ranna agus oifigí Stáit, údaráis áitiúla, institiúidí oideachais agus comhlachtaí poiblí eile nach iad.
Tá plé gníomhach ar siúl le tuairim is 126 comhlacht poibli faoi láthair chun scéimeanna teanga a aontú leo – ina measc siúd tá 60 comhlacht a bhfuil scéim le hathnuachan acu. Ar ndóigh, fanann scéim teanga i bhfeidhm ar feadh tréimhse trí bliana nó go dtí go ndéantar athnuachan air, cibé acu is déanaí.
33. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs her views on the post-commemorations relative decrease in funding to the arts, in particular the impact this could have on regional and community arts groups; if, with regard to the planned Culture 2025 programme, she has any concerns over the use of economic markers to assess cultural or artistic value; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31015/16]
View answer35. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs her plans for bringing arts funding up to 0.6% of GDP in line with the EU average; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31154/16]
View answer46. Deputy Mick Barry asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs her reasons for not retaining funding into 2017 in view of the positive experience of a modestly increased arts and culture budget for 2016 and in view of the lower than European average funding the State gives to the arts and culture; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31143/16]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 33, 35 and 46 together.
I have retained the majority of the €18 million current funding which was provided for the 2016 Commemorations for reallocation to arts and cultural purposes within my Department’s vote. It will, therefore, become part of the baseline figures for my Department, meaning that it will be carried forward into future years.
As I previously outlined, Budget 2017 will include
- an additional €5 million for the Arts Council, an 8% increase in its annual budget;
- increased funding for all of the National Cultural Institutions;
- an increase of €2 million for the Irish Film Board and €1 million for Culture Ireland; and
- an additional €1 million to the Heritage Council.
I have also secured a new funding stream of €5m for the implementation of a Culture 2025 /Ireland 2016 Legacy Programme, which will allow me to build on the positive legacy of the Ireland 2016 commemorations. I will be announcing details of this new initiative shortly.
All of this represents real and substantial funding increases across the arts and cultural area and has been welcomed across the sector. It also re-affirms the commitment of this Government to progressively increase funding for the arts as the economy improves, as set out in the Programme for a Partnership Government.
It should be noted that, the majority of the €49 million allocation to my Department for this year’s Ireland 2016 Centenary Programme was capital funding that went towards a series of ‘Permanent Reminder’ projects, including the new ‘Witness History’ visitor centre at the GPO, the refurbishment of Richmond Barracks, the Kevin Barry Rooms at the National Concert Hall and the Athenaeum in Wexford. With the completion of the various ‘Permanent Reminder’ projects, the capital funding provided for them will not be required in 2017. The projects themselves will, of course, continue to be a positive and lasting legacy for the people of Ireland.
With regard to the reference to 0.6% of GDP quoted, I understand that the source of this is a Council of Europe research project and that many European countries, including ten EU member states, are not included in the data. I understand also that the data are not standardised and are not comparable across countries. For example, local authority expenditure on the arts, the artists' exemption tax relief, expenditure on public service broadcasting and the Irish language are not included in the figures for Ireland but comparable figures are included in the data for some other countries.
I have previously stated that further research on this issue is warranted and my Department is considering the matter at present. The issue of a definition of culture and of capturing public expenditure on culture is an element of the draft Culture 2025 framework policy, which was forwarded to the Oireachtas Committee on Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs for input in July last.
34. D'fhiafraigh Deputy Catherine Connolly den Aire Ealaíon, Oidhreachta, Gnóthaí Réigiúnacha, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta ós rud é go ndúirt an Rialtas in 2007 go raibh siad ag glacadh le moltaí an SCT (Staidéar Cuimsitheach Teangeolaíochta), an bhfuil sé ar intinn acu na moltaí tábhachtacha a chur i bhfeidhm; go háirithe an bhfuil an moladh maidir le SLG (Scéim Labhairt na Gaeilge) a fhorbairt agus a fheabhsú le cur i bhfeidhm; cén costas a bhainfeadh le moltaí an SCT a chur i bhfeidhm; agus an ndéanfaidh sí ráiteas ina thaobh. [31150/16]
View answerMar is eol don Teachta, bhí sé ar cheann de na príomh-mholtaí a rinneadh sa Staidéar Cuimsitheach Teangeolaíoch ar Úsáid na Gaeilge sa Ghaeltacht 2007 go mbunófaí próiseas pleanála teanga faoina dtabharfaí an deis do phobail labhartha na Gaeilge laistigh agus lasmuigh den Ghaeltacht chun a bheith lárnach in ullmhú agus i bhfeidhmiú pleananna teanga i gcomhréir le riachtanais shainiúla an cheantair i gceist. Ar mhaithe le feidhm reachtúil a thabhairt don phróiseas sin i gcomhréir lena raibh molta sa Straitéis 20-Bliain don Ghaeilge 2010-2030 , achtaíodh Acht na Gaeltachta in 2012 ina leagtar amach próiseas faoina mbeidh pleananna teanga á n-ullmhú agus á bhfeidhmiú ag leibhéal an phobail i gceantair a bhféadfaí aitheantas a thabhairt dóibh faoin Acht mar Limistéir Pleanála Teanga Ghaeltachta, mar Bhailte Seirbhíse Gaeltachta nó mar Líonraí Gaeilge. Tá obair idir lámha ag mo Roinn ar bhonn leanúnach, i gcomhar le hÚdarás na Gaeltachta agus Foras na Gaeilge araon, chun an próiseas pleanála teanga sin a bhrú chun cinn.
Maidir le Scéim Labhairt na Gaeilge, ar tháinig deireadh léi in 2011, dírím aird an Teachta ar an gClár Tacaíochta Teaghlaigh a seoladh i mí Aibreáin 2012 le teacht in áit Scéim Labhairt na Gaeilge. Tá sé mar cheann de phríomh-aidhmeanna an Chláir ná tacú le teaghlaigh na Gaeltachta atá ag tógáil clainne le Gaeilge nó a dteastaíonn uathu é sin a dhéanamh. Mar léargas ar chuid de na beartais atá curtha i bhfeidhm nó idir lámha faoin gClár Tacaíochta Teaghlaigh, luafainn go sonrach:
- An tionscnamh faoin bhfuil pacáiste teanga forbartha agus á chur ar fáil do theaghlaigh óga atá ag tógáil clainne le Gaeilge. Ó cuireadh tús leis an tionscnamh ceithre bliana ó shin, tá breis agus 4,800 pacáiste teanga dáilte atá comhdhéanta de leabhair, dlúthdhioscaí agus DVDanna chomh maith le leabhrán le comhairle phraiticiúil faoin ábhar. Ina theannta sin scaiptear leathán eolais faoin tionscnamh tríd na seirbhísí máithreachais a dhéanann freastal ar cheantair Ghaeltachta ar mhaithe le feasacht a chothú i measc an phobail faoi na buntáistí a bhaineann le clann a thógáil le Gaeilge.
- An Scéim Seirbhísí Réamhscoile agus Iarscoile, ar cuireadh tús léi in 2014 agus atá á riar ag mo Roinn, faoina gcuirtear cúnamh ar fáil do sheirbhísí áirithe réamhscoile sa Ghaeltacht le cumasú dóibh gníomhaíochta faoi leith a chur ar bun ar mhaithe le cabhrú tuilleadh le teaghlaigh óga na Gaeltachta ó thaobh na Gaeilge de. Is fiú a lua chomh maith céanna an maoiniú suntasach atá á chur ar fáil ag mo Roinn don eagraíocht Tuismitheoirí na Gaeltachta le cabhrú leo deiseanna saibhrithe teanga a chur ar fáil do theaghlaigh óga.
- I dteannta leis an méid sin, tá forbairtí éagsúla déanta le tamall de bhlianta anuas faoi scáth an Chláir Tacaíochta Teaghlaigh chun barr feabhais a chur ar Scéim na gCúntóirí Teanga de chuid mo Roinne. I measc na bhforbairtí atá déanta ar an scéim, tá tacaíochtaí breise curtha ar fáil do na cúntóirí Teanga, chomh maith le deiseanna breise saibhrithe teanga faoin scéim.
Mar gheall ar an leithdháileadh breise atá curtha ar fáil faoi Cháinaisnéis 2017 do na scéimeanna Gaeilge agus Gaeltachta, gan trácht ar chistíocht bhreise atá ar fáil go sonrach le cabhrú le cur i bhfeidhm na Straitéise, táim sásta go mbeifear in ann leanúint ar aghaidh go bisiúil ag tacú mar is cuí le cur chun cinn na Gaeilge laistigh agus lasmuigh den Ghaeltacht i gcomhréir le haidhmeanna na Straitéise.
36. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if she will be seeking the transfer of further responsibilities for rural development to her Department such as for rural transport, the development of greenways, responsibility for mountain rescue, responsibility for farm assist and the rural social scheme; if not, her plans to seek such responsibilities; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31101/16]
View answerSupporting rural development is a key priority for this Government. The Programme for a Partnership Government contains over 80 commitments for delivery across a range of Departments and State agencies to revitalise rural Ireland and ensure that the benefits of economic recovery are felt in all regions. These Departments and agencies have the statutory authority, budgets and expertise in their own particular areas to make a positive contribution to rural development. It would not necessarily be effective or practicable to transfer all of these functions into a single Government Department. Indeed, the administrative processes required might not be cost-effective and could well delay the delivery of much-needed services to rural Ireland.
A key to ensuring effective co-ordination of the effort to support rural development across Government will be the new Action Plan for Rural Development. Progress is well under way in my Department in preparing this Plan, which will act as an overarching structure for the co-ordination and implementation of initiatives across Government which will benefit rural Ireland. My objective is to publish the Action Plan by the end of the year.
My Department will monitor progress on implementing the Plan on an on-going basis, and I will report progress to the Cabinet Committee on Regional and Rural Affairs, which is chaired by the Taoiseach. I will also publish Progress Reports on a regular basis.
My own Department has, of course, responsibility for a number of important programmes and initiatives which impact positively on rural Ireland, including the Town and Village Renewal Scheme, the REDZ Scheme, CLÁR, the LEADER programme, the Rural Recreation and Walks Schemes, and Mountain Rescue.
37. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs regarding the commitment to funding of €5 million for implementation of Culture 2025 and the Ireland 2016 legacy programme, if she will confirm that this separate mechanism for arts funding will conclude in 2017; the criteria for allocating this fund; the way artists and arts organisations can apply; the role of the fund for existing organisations, including the Arts Council and Culture Ireland; and the arrangements for independent, arm's length governance she has put in place for this fund for the remainder for its duration. [31156/16]
View answer39. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the purpose of and modalities of an implementation body for a culture policy yet to be finalised and concluded in view of Culture 2025 in its existing draft form currently being revised by the Oireachtas Committee on Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs. [31157/16]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 37 and 39 together.
I published the draft framework policy Culture 2025/Éíre Ildánach in July this year, which was submitted to the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs for input.
The Culture 2025 framework policy sets out:
- a series of high-level objectives under the headings of Enrich, Engage, Participate to establish Government vision in relation to culture and society in Ireland;
- a set of key values, including the intrinsic value of culture, the right to participate in the cultural life of the nation and the role of culture in fostering a more sustainable future in Ireland; and
- a series of priority measures for implementation across Government and public bodies.
I understand that the Committee is currently preparing a report on the draft framework policy, which I will consider when received.
In the meantime, I believe that it is important to continue momentum in terms of delivery of the priorities set out in the framework policy and to build on the positive legacy of the Ireland 2016 Centenary Programme.
My Department has, therefore, been developing a cross-Government initiative to mainstream culture and creativity in the life of the nation and to promote individual, community and national well-being. This will focus on boosting cultural provision and participation in communities and harnessing the goodwill and engagement generated by the commemorative programme this year. It will also act as the main vehicle to take forward the priorities identified in Culture 2025.
I have secured funding of €5m in Budget 2017 to underpin this new initiative and I intend to announce further details in the coming weeks.
In addition to the funding to support the implementation of this new initiative, I also announced significant additional funding in last week’s Budget to support arts and cultural provision, including:
- An additional €5 million for the Arts Council, an 8% increase in its annual budget;
- Boosts in funding for all of the National Cultural Institutions;
- €1.7 million to allow for the opening of the newly restored historic wings at National Gallery of Ireland on foot of significant capital investment by the State; and
- An increase of €2 million for the Irish Film Board and €1 million for Culture Ireland.
