I am aware of the issue regarding the provision of affordable studio space, particularly in Dublin as a result of the changing property market. In general, I would consider that local approaches driven by artists, local arts officers are best suited to respond to the specific local circumstances involved and provide the most effective outcomes. However, my Department is in discussion with the Arts Council, Dublin City Council and the OPW to consider some possible short-term and longer-term approaches to the issue.
In terms of practical responses, I recently announced details of more than €9 million in capital funding for 56 arts and culture centres across the country. Eight of these grants relate to artist studios and creative spaces amounting to a total of €850,000.
As part of the Government’s initiative on the North East Inner City, I also awarded a grant of €35,000 last year to Fire Station Artists' Studios, Buckingham Street, to assist in providing additional studio space in conjunction with Dublin City Council.
I will shortly be announcing a new capital grants Scheme which will provide grants of up to €20,000 to not-for-profit organisations with a defined arts and cultural remit. Organisations with artists' studios will also be eligible to apply under this Scheme.
The legislative framework for planning is a matter for the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government. However in general, as I stated above, I would consider it more appropriate for local authorities to determine their own needs rather than mandating strict national quotas which may not be appropriate.
The issue of whether any additional guidance would be of assistance will be kept under review in light of the work which is currently being undertaken by my Department and the Arts Council.
