Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 20 September 2018
255. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht her views on the recent CSO report that shows that arts and entertainment was the only sector that has seen a decrease in average weekly earnings in the second quarter of 2018 and the second quarter of 2013; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38100/18]
View answer256. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht her plans to address the issues arising in which artists cannot afford to live in Dublin; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38101/18]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 255 and 256 together.
I am aware of the issues referred to in the questions and I am determined to deliver additional supports to the arts and culture sector in line with Government commitments. In this regard, primary support for the Arts is delivered through the Arts Council. Funding for the Arts Council has increased by 20% over the past 4 years and now stands at €68.2 million in 2018; representing 23% of the total allocation to of my Department and over 49% of all current expenditure by the Culture Division of my Department. The Creative Ireland Programme is also delivering additional resources to the sector, for example, through the Creative Youth Programme, Cruinniú na Cásca and the Culture and Creativity Strategies delivered by local authorities. I have also delivered significant capital resources for the culture sector which will see almost €1.2 billion invested in our culture, language and heritage over the next 10 years.
My Department has also provided investment for artists studios under the Arts and Culture Capital Scheme and the Department will continue to engage with Dublin City Council and the OPW in particular in relation to the provision of facilities for artists in the City.
