Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 May 2017
409. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if she will consider lifting the budget limits on the per cent for the arts scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24599/17]
View answerMy Department has responsibility for the promotion of the Per Cent for Art Scheme and set out guidelines in 2004 to assist project managers to operate the scheme and to provide a common national approach to its implementation. However, funding for the scheme is part of the capital cost of the project and falls to the relevant public authority responsible for the specific construction project involved. The current cap was set by Government in 1997.
The Per Cent for Arts Scheme guidelines assist with its implementation. The scheme is now well-known and embedded in all public infrastructure works. The public have become familiar with the works of art on our roads, but there are also art works resulting from the scheme in schools, hospitals and all buildings funded by the taxpayer. Public art is not confined to sculptures; it has also resulted in performances, new writings and compositions. Given the period which has now elapsed since the cap was last adjusted in 1997, I have asked my Department to consider the matter further and to report to me on possible options for reviewing the cap.
