Written Answers Nos. 299-320
299. Deputy Alan Dillon asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media if her Department has reviewed the recent large-scale pilot events; if she will support increasing the attendance at provincial stadia following successful pilot events at Croke Park; her plans to allow for customised capacity suitable for each venue versus a universal approach; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37202/21]
View answerThe Government recently decided to allow for the further easing of restrictions in line with public health guidance. From 5 July the numbers permitted at outdoor organised events have increased to a maximum of 200 for the majority of venues, with a maximum of 500 for outdoor stadia/venues with a minimum accredited capacity of 5,000. Subject to improving public health conditions, further easing of restrictions will be considered for August and we anticipate further increases in the numbers permitted at both indoor and outdoor events.
In respect of the sports sector, my Department has been working since October 2020 with a combined working group of the FAI, the IRFU and the GAA and Sport Ireland. The working group's guidelines, prepared with the assistance of health and safety experts, are designed for use by event organisers and have been published. The guidelines describe how spectators can safely be accommodated at sporting events.
The Government also recently agreed on pilot events for both entertainment and sport and these events are ongoing. The pilot events for sport use measures to mitigate against COVID-19 including reduced attendances, careful communication with spectators, physical distancing, mask-wearing, the careful management of entrance and departure of spectators and hand sanitising. Spectators are required to agree to a code of conduct for the event and advised not to attend if they are feeling the symptoms of COVID-19. A health screening questionnaire is communicated to spectators before events. Full refunds are available to spectators should they need to stay away from the event for health reasons. Sporting bodies apply the guidelines to each event. The specific circumstances and unique character of each venue are taken into account when considering attendances for events.
Pilot events are necessary as a proof of concept for the safe management of events in line with the guidelines whilst COVID-19 is still circulating in our communities. They assess and build confidence in the COVID-19 guidance and event management protocols developed by sectors. The pilot events have allowed sports bodies and stadiums to put in place the necessary safety measures and have allowed for the safe return of spectators. Pilot events are being held not just in Dublin but throughout the country. For example, in the period to 19 July events will be held in Sligo, Mayo, Limerick, Cork, Tipperary and Dublin. Athletics, cricket, association football, gaelic football, camogie, hurling and rugby are some of the examples of the sports involved.
I remain firmly committed to the full return of all live events at the earliest possible date, having regard to public health developments, and the pilot performances and sporting events, together with a wide range of horizontal and direct supports for the sector, are all part of a suite of measures designed to sustain and support the sector in its recovery.
300. Deputy Michael Collins asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media if there is specific funding of advice on funding streams for a project by a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37271/21]
View answerThere are no schemes operated by my Department under which funding could be sought for the project in question. Primary support for the arts in Ireland is delivered by the Arts Council and it is independent in its funding decisions under the Arts Act 2003. Funding for the Arts Council has increased to €130 million for 2021. The Arts Council operates within a published ten-year strategic framework entitled Making Great Art Work. The Arts Council supports and develops the arts in Ireland through grant funding, project awards, support to individual artists, and support to venues, publications and resource organisations.
This strategy prioritises support for artists throughout their careers, by the involvement of many agencies in cultural provision, by the impact of the arts on the creative economy, and by the depth and breadth of people's engagement with the arts. Further information can be found on the Arts Council website at www.artscouncil.ie.
301. Deputy Marc MacSharry asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media further to Parliamentary Question No. 329 of 10 March 2021, if Sport Ireland has commenced the recruitment process for its new CEO; if not, the reason; when it will commence; if the Public Appointments Service will have a role in the recruitment of the new CEO; if the position of the incumbent CEO will be once again extended for a further period as has become the practice using Covid-19 and other reasons as cover; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37286/21]
View answerThe Chair of Sport Ireland has sought the approval of my Department to fill the upcoming CEO vacancy, which will arise on the completion of the current CEO's contract at the end of this year, and to recruit and appoint a new CEO. My officials are currently engaging with the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform in relation to the necessary sanction of that Department in accordance with the Guidelines for appointments of CEOs of non-commercial State bodies.
No recruitment can be commenced by Sport Ireland until the terms and conditions related to the appointment have been approved by this Department and DPER.
In relation to any role by PAS, it is expected that the position will be advertised by PAS on the publicjobs.ie portal. Any involvement by PAS in the candidate selection process will be subject to discussions with PAS in the usual way for such positions. No proposal has been received from the Chair of Sport Ireland in relation to a further extension of the current CEO's contract beyond 31 December.
302. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media the details of the social impact assessments carried out by her Department and public bodies and agencies under her remit since 1 January 2016; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37302/21]
View answerAs the Deputy will be aware Social Impact Assessment (SIA) is an analytical framework that is designed to examine the demographic profile of public services users, and how they are impacted by budgetary policy decisions. The framework complements existing budgetary impact assessment exercises conducted by the Departments of Public Expenditure and Reform (including Equality Budgeting ), Finance, Employment Affairs and Social Protection and externally by the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI). Social Impact Statements are conducted by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform (including Equality Budgeting ), Finance, Employment Affairs and Social Protection and externally by the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI).
I am advised that my Department and the bodies under its aegis have not conducted social impact assessments over the period specified by the Deputy. Further information, along with a list of social impact assessments undertaken by various Government Departments can be found here: www.gov.ie/en/policy-information/615fe5-social-impact-assessment-framework/.
I trust that the above is of assistance to the Deputy.
303. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media if musicians and bands are being refused access to the music entertainment business assistance scheme if they do not operate exclusively in the commercial live entertainment industry; if so, the details of same; and if she will reconsider this restriction given the vast majority of live musicians also seek to generate income from non-live music activities such as recording. [37357/21]
View answer313. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media the process by which applicants for the music and entertainment business assistance scheme can appeal a rejection of their application; if her attention has been drawn to situations in which an appeal found that an application should not have been rejected but asked the applicant to recommence their application from the start once again rather than granting them the funding they had been incorrectly denied; and her views on the fairness or unfairness of such an appeals process to musicians and entertainers who have been waiting for funding for months. [37977/21]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 303 and 313 together.
As part of a €50 million suite of supports for the live entertainment sector, an allocation of €14m has been made available for the Music and Entertainment Business Assistance Scheme (MEBAS). The aim of this scheme is to make a contribution to the overheads of businesses, specifically musicians and related crew, that have been significantly negatively affected by COVID-19, have not been able to perform or stage performances and do not qualify for other business supports. The main features of this new scheme will see support offered by way of three levels of flat payments:
- €2,500 for businesses with a VAT-exclusive turnover of €20,000 - €50,000 with minimum business costs of €3,000 incurred from 1 April 2020 to 31 May 2021.
- €4,000 for businesses with a VAT-exclusive turnover of €50,001- €100,000 with minimum business costs of €6,000 from 1 April 2020 to 31 May 2021.
- €5,000 for businesses with VAT-exclusive turnover in excess of €100,000 with minimum business costs of €7,500 from 1 April 2020 to 31 May 2021.
Under the scheme, self-employed businesses including musicians, singers, lighting and sound crew and audio equipment suppliers operating exclusively within the commercial live entertainment sector are eligible to apply. Applications may be made via the MEBAS application portal on my Department’s website. The application window for this scheme has recently been extended to 21 July 2021.
Details in relation to the appeals process for this scheme is available on my Department's website here www.gov.ie/en/publication/20a97-music-and-entertainment-business-assistance-scheme-guidelines/#appeals.
Officials in my Department are engaging with applicants where an appeal has been made on the basis that the applicant has stated that they have supplied incorrect information on their application form and now wish to have a revised application considered.
304. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media the reason an organisation (details supplied) has received no response or acknowledgement to its submission in January 2021 for funding for the refurbishment of an arena. [37373/21]
View answerThe submission referred to by the Deputy was never received in the relevant sections of my Department. I understand this was due to the size of the file submitted and the use of email to transmit same. Officials in my Department have subsequently engaged directly with the organisation referred to and received a version of the submission last week. My Department is now examining this submission and will continue to engage directly with the organisation on the matter.
305. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media the conditions under which hospitality venues are permitted to have musicians play outside acoustically; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37427/21]
View answerAt present, live music performances – whether acoustic or otherwise – are not generally permitted at outdoor hospitality venues. The Government has confirmed that the next phase of reopening will be based on a cautious approach with an emphasis on lower-risk activities, following advice from the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET) that the incidence of the Delta variant in Ireland poses a significant risk, particularly to those who are not yet fully vaccinated. Further Government decisions, including the conditions under which hospitality venues can facilitate the playing of music, will be informed by the impact of the Delta variant. I have however recently raised the matter with Government colleagues, who have noted my intention to seek specific health advice in relation to the resumption of live entertainment in indoor and outdoor settings, particularly at licensed venues such as restaurants, pubs and hotels.
306. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media if she will initiate a dialogue with the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine in order to make available or release or both, Land Commission records in the context of the Decade of Centenaries events and themes for the period 2019 to 2023; if steps will be taken to make the pre-1922 records available; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37451/21]
View answerAs the Deputy has indicated, responsibility for the Land Commission Records lies with the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine and it is a matter, in the first instance, for that Department. Officials in my Department are in regular contact with colleagues across Government Departments, including the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, on key aspects of the Decade of Centenaries Programme relating to their areas of policy responsibility.
It is my Department’s understanding that when the Irish Land Commission ceased functioning in 1992, its work was unfinished. The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine is responsible for completing the work of the former Irish Land Commission (ILC) and, as such, the records of the Irish Land Commission are still working documents, accessed by the staff of that Department daily.
Whilst the social, cultural and political significance of the Irish Land Commission is accepted, it is my Department’s understanding that the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine currently has no plans to digitise all of the Land Commission records that it holds.
However, my Department understands that the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine is currently examining the possibility of digitising certain key search aids which will enable electronic searches of the Land Commission Records Database to be carried out by members of the public in order to ascertain if specific records exist.
The timeframe for completion of this review and the outcome of this process is a matter for the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine and any queries in that regard should be put to that Department in the first instance.
307. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media the number of successful large-scale sports infrastructure fund projects that have now drawn down funds for project completion by local authority in tabular form. [37521/21]
View answerThe National Sports Policy as published in 2018 provided for the establishment of a Large Scale Sport Infrastructure Fund (LSSIF) and the National Development Plan provided a capital allocation of at least €100m for the Fund over the period to 2027.
The first allocations under the LSSIF were announced in January 2020 and thus far, approximately €86.4m has been awarded to 33 different proposals. These projects are at various stages of a due diligence process and formal grant agreements have now issued to a number of the successful applicants. To date no grantee has drawn down funds for project completion but given the nature of capital works projects and the issues faced by grantees as a result of the Covid pandemic that is unsurprising. Now that a number of formal grant agreements have issued, the first payments are expected to be made in the coming months.
My Department is also currently undertaking a review of the LSSIF. This review is considering, inter alia, progress on all existing grants and my Department is engaging with all applicants in this regard. As well as the progress on existing grants, the Review is considering whether additional grants should be awarded including grants to previously unsuccessful applications. The timing of any new call for proposals is also being considered. Any new allocations or a new call for proposals, will be dependent on receiving additional funding for the LSSIF following completion of the review of the National Development Plan. It is expected that my Department’s Review of the LSSIF will be complete in the coming months.
308. D'fhiafraigh Deputy Pearse Doherty den Aire Turasóireachta, Cultúir, Ealaíon, Gaeltachta, Spóirt agus Meán an bhfuil an comhfhreagras faighte aici ó Choiste Mhná Tí Thír Chonaill an 11 Meitheamh 2021; an bhfuil freagra tugtha don ghrúpa sin; an bhfuil an tAire Stáit sásta cruinniú a eagrú leis an ngrúpa sin; agus an ndéanfaidh sí ráiteas ina thaobh. [37537/21]
View answerMar is eol don Teachta, rinneadh cinneadh i mí Bealtaine nach bhféadfadh coláistí Gaeilge feidhmiú den dara bhliain as a chéile mar gheall ar COVID-19. Rinneadh an cinneadh sin ar bhonn comhdhearcaidh tar éis dom mar Aire Stáit dul i ndáil comhairle le páirtithe leasmhara - idir lucht lóistín an chórais, lucht stiúrtha na gcoláistí agus lucht stiúrtha hallaí pobail ábhartha na Gaeltachta araon. Níor mhiste a lua gur chuimsigh an cur chuige sin ar fad an deis chun aighneachtaí i scríbhinn faoin ábhar a chur faoi bhráid na Roinne ag an tráth sin.
Agus an cinneadh á dhéanamh, tógadh san áireamh an imní shuntasach a bhí le sonrú faoi shláinte phoiblí agus faoi shábháilteacht theaghlaigh Ghaeltachta agus phobail áitiúla i dtaca le COVID-19 dá reáchtálfaí cúrsaí samhraidh.
Mar chuid den chur chuige a bhain leis an gcomhairliúchán agus mar atá luaite agam eagraíodh sraith cruinnithe ar líne a raibh mé féin agus feidhmeannaigh mo Roinne i láthair ann le hionadaíocht lucht lóistín chóras na gcoláistí Gaeilge. Is ar bhonn réigiúnach a eagraíodh na cruinnithe sin faoi leith agus cuimsíodh ar ndóigh ionadaíocht na mban tí atá bainteach le coláistí Gaeilge Ghaeltacht Thír Chonaill.
Ba é cuspóir na gcruinnithe ná tuairimí agus moltaí faoin ábhar a chloisteáil go díreach ó na páirthe leasmhara. In éindí le plé le hionadaíocht na mban tí ó na ceantair Ghaeltachta, bhí plé ann chomh maith ar ndóigh le scáthghrúpa na gcoláistí samhraidh iad féin, CONCOS chomh maith le grúpa ionadaíoch do na hallaí pobail Gaeltachta a mbaineann na coláistí samhraidh leas astu le haghaidh cóiríocht ranga agus siamsaíochta.
Bhí an plé sin ar fad thar a bheith tairbheach domsa mar Aire Stáit agus d'fheidhmeannaigh na Roinne agus chabhraigh sé go mór léargas níos fearr a fháil ar na deacrachtaí agus na tosaíochtaí comónta atá ag na páirithe leasmhara in earnáil na gColáistí Samhraidh ó cheann ceann na Gaeltachta.
De thoradh an phlé, d'fhógair mé le déanaí go bhfuil ciste ar fiú €2.2m bunaithe agam chun teacht i gcabhair ar theaghlaigh cháilithe Ghaeltachta a chuireann lóistín ar fáil do lucht freastail na gcoláistí samhraidh. Tá an chistíocht á cur ar fáil de thoradh cúrsaí Gaeilge sa Ghaeltacht a bheith curtha ar ceal den dara samhradh as a chéile mar gheall ar COVID-19.
Tar éis an deis a bheith agam éisteacht go cúramach le hionadaíocht lucht lóistín an chórais agus le páirtithe leasmhara eile, ar ndóigh, is maith a thuigim na dúshláin ar leith atá roimh na pobail Ghaeltachta.
Ós rud é gurb é seo an dara bhliain as a chéile arbh éigean do chóras na gColáistí Gaeilge a chur ar ceal de bharr COVID-19, tá ardú ionann le 25% thairis an méid a íocadh anuraidh le tuairim is 700 teaghlach sa Ghaeltacht a chuireann lóistín ar fáil do lucht freastail na gcoláistí Gaeilge gach samhradh.
De thoradh seo is íocaíocht ionann le €5 in aghaidh an fhoghaimeora a chuirfear ar fáil seachas €4 mar a cuireadh ar fáil faoin gciste cobhsaithe a bunaíodh in 2020.
Maidir leis an ngrúpa a luaigh an Teachta, a tháinig chun cinn tar éis an phróisis thuasluaite, is féidir liom a dhearbhú don Teachta go bhfuarthas comhfhreagras uathu agus go bhfuil freagra tugtha air. Is féidir liom a dheabhú chomh maith gur labhair feidhmeannach mo Roinne le hionadaithe an ghrúpa sin le gairid agus go bhfuil a n-éileamh á mbreithniú.
Níor mhiste a lua áfach on aiseolas trí chéile atá faighte go dtí seo maidir leis an gcistíocht atá curtha ar fáil do thuairim is 700 teaghlach na scéime, go bhfuil fáilte trí chéile curtha roimh an mbeart. Níor mhiste dom a lua chomh maith go bhfuil iarratais ina leith á nglacadh agus á bpróiseáil ag an Roinn cheana féin.
309. Deputy Pauline Tully asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media the funding that has been allocated for wheelchair accessibility on walking trails in 2019, 2020 and to date in 2021, respectively; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37606/21]
View answerSport Ireland, which is funded by my Department, is the statutory body with responsibility for the development of sport, increasing participation at all levels and raising standards. Sport Ireland does not maintain or manage walking trails nor does it allocate funding towards trails development or wheelchair accessibility on trails.
Sport Ireland has responsibility for Sport Ireland Outdoors (formerly the National Trails Office). Sport Ireland Outdoors is focused on supporting and promoting participation in all forms of outdoor sport in Ireland. Sport Ireland Outdoors promotes the planning and development of recreational trails and outdoor recreation infrastructure by promoting standards and best practice in the development of walking, cycling and water trails. Sport Ireland Outdoors maintains a National Trail Register of over 900 approved trails that align with the prescribed standards for trails in Ireland.
I understand that funding may be allocated for trails accessibility projects under the Outdoors Recreation Infrastructure scheme (ORIS), which is managed by the Department of Rural and Community Development. Questions in relation to funding under the ORIS are more appropriate to my colleague, the Minister for Rural and Community Development.
I am informed by Sport Ireland that they have had recent involvement in the funding decision process for the ORIS and that the Department of Rural and Community Development has been working closely with CARA to develop grant guidelines in relation to infrastructure development for people with a disability. These guidelines were developed in line with the 'A Guide for Accessibility' document which was developed by the Irish Wheelchair Association in collaboration with Sport Ireland, and delivered online by CARA.
310. Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media the dates in 2021 she has spoken with either the chairperson and or director of the Irish Museum of Modern Art; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37615/21]
View answerAs a general rule, my officials and I maintain active engagement on a range of issues with the Chairs and Directors (where appropriate) of the National Cultural Institutions under my aegis. I met with the director of the Irish Museum of Modern Art in April of this year. My officials continue to engage on an ongoing basis with the director and officials of the Irish Museum of Modern Art on a range of issues.
311. D'fhiafraigh Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív den Aire Turasóireachta, Cultúir, Ealaíon, Gaeltachta, Spóirt agus Meán cá mhéad talún neamhfhorbartha atá ag Údarás na Gaeltachta; cá mhéad talún neamhfhorbartha atá ag a Roinn sa Ghaeltacht; na háiteanna ina bhfuil an talamh sin suite; agus an ndéanfaidh sí ráiteas ina thaobh. [37654/21]
View answerTá punann maoine forleathan ag Údarás na Gaeltachta sna seacht gContae Gaeltachta ar a bhfuil an eagraíocht ag freastal. Tá gá sciar de na foirgnimh a uasghrádú agus a chur in oiriúint do riachtanais an lae inniu agus iad a dhéanamh níos éifeachtaí ó thaobh chúrsaí fuinnimh de chomh maith.
Is é uaillmhian Údarás na Gaeltachta go mbeidh córas fuinnimh inathnuaite ag 50% dá gcuid foirgnimh faoi 2030. Sa bhreis air sin, tá an deis ann tograí pobail agus tráchtála a fhorbairt sa réimse fuinnimh inathnuaite a thacóidh le deiseanna fostaíochta a chur ar fáil san eacnamaíocht ghlas.
Sa sciar neamhfhorbartha de phunann talún an Údaráis tá portaigh, talamh féarach agus píosaí talamh aonarach i gceist chomh maith le talamh ar léas ag cliaint nó geallshealbhóirí áitiúla eile (Comhairle Contae, comharchumann srl). Ina measc freisin tá suímh straitéiseacha tionsclaíocha atá oiriúnach do fhorbairt fiontraíochta nuair a thagann tionscadal iomchuí chun tosaigh, faoi réir maoiniú a bheith ar fáil.
Tá an briseadh síos ar an talamh neamhfhorbartha ar fáil thíos:
|
Punann Talamh Údarás na Gaeltachta |
Iomlán (acra) |
Neamhfhorbartha (acra) |
|
Co. Dhún na nGall |
451.73 |
73.21 |
|
Co. Mhaigh Eo |
109.24 |
54.86 |
|
Co. na Gaillimhe |
2,353.64 |
190.69 |
|
Co. na Mí |
5.00 |
0.00 |
|
Co. Chiarraí |
365.50 |
46.00 |
|
Co. Chorcaí |
102.66 |
14.00 |
|
Co. Phort Láirge |
14.90 |
8.00 |
|
Iomlán (acra) |
3,402.67 |
386.76 |
Níl aon talaimh neamhfhorbartha ag mo Roinn fhéin.
312. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media the number of legal cases brought against her Department in each of the past five years and to date in 2021; and if he will provide details on the nature of these cases. [37819/21]
View answerI am advised that no legal cases have been brought against my Department during the period specified by the Deputy.
314. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media further to Parliamentary Question No. 59 of 22 June 2021 and a letter from this Deputy on 26 June 2021, when she will provide the minutes of the meetings of and research considered by the Return to Live Events Working Group. [37978/21]
View answerI attach the minutes of the first three meetings of the Live Entertainment Working Group. This Group also met on June 25th however these minutes have not yet been agreed by the Group, this will be done at the next meeting.
This group are working with my Department to develop guidelines for the safe operation of the live entertainment sector. Learnings from the pilot events which have been taking place across June and July will also inform the guidelines.
315. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media if she will provide the minutes of the meeting held between her Department and representatives of the events industry on 2 September 2020; if the application process for the live performance support scheme was discussed at this meeting; if those in attendance were given the opportunity to shape the application process; and the steps taken to ensure those in attendance were not given an added advantage in seeking and obtaining funding under the scheme compared to others not at the meeting. [37979/21]
View answerI attach the minutes of a meeting in September 2020 between myself, officials in my Department and representatives from the EIA (Events Industry Alliance).
At the meeting I noted the concerns expressed and thanked the members of the Alliance for its ongoing input and engagement with officials. I also invited the Alliance to put forward a nominee to participate in the Arts and Culture Recovery Task Force which was due to be set up.
While the LPSS is not referred to in the minutes of the meeting, I am sure that I would have mentioned my intention to identify suitable supports for the arts, culture and live entertainment sectors. My officials and I have been engaged in regular, ongoing communication with a wide range of stakeholders since the start of the pandemic and the information from these meetings has been invaluable in helping my Department frame the response to the crisis on the sectors for which I have responsibility. I am satisfied however that no group or individual benefitted from stakeholder engagement prior to any scheme being launched to the broader public.
Minister’s meeting with Events Industry Alliance
2 September 2020 at 5.30 pm
Note of meeting
Attendance:-
Events Industry Alliance
Brian Spollen (MCD)
Justin Green (MCD & EPIC)
Katherine Mason (EIA)
Matt McGranaghan (MEAI)
Mike Adamson (Live Nation)
Shane Dunne (EPIC)
Department of TCAGSM
Katherine Licken
Conor Falvey
Mary Nash
Juno McEnroe
The Events Industry Alliance is composed of
- EPIC - Event Production Industry COVID-19 Working Group –
- AOIFE - Association of Irish Festivals & Events
- EIAI - Event Industry Association of Ireland
- MEAI - Music & Entertainment Association of Ireland);
- ISG - Irish Showman’s Guild
- IIHF - Irish Inflatables Hirers Federation
- EII - Event Industry Ireland
- EIST - Entertainers Ireland Stand Together
The representatives of EIA engaged in a wide ranging discussion on the impacts of the COVID-19 restrictions on their sectors, the Government’s response and the concerns for the future in terms of opportunities for a re-opening. The Minister noted the concerns expressed and thanked the members of the Alliance for its ongoing input and engagement with officials.
The Minister also invited the Alliance to put forward a nominee to participate in the Arts and Culture Recovery Task Force which will be set up in the coming weeks.
316. D'fhiafraigh Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh den Aire Turasóireachta, Cultúir, Ealaíon, Gaeltachta, Spóirt agus Meán cén dáta a thug a Roinn comhairle do choláistí samhraidh gan éarlaisí a ghlacadh don bhliain 2021; cén fáth gur thug sí comhairle gan éarlaisí a ghlacadh in ainneoin go raibh a Roinn den tuairim go reáchtálfaí na coláistí i mbliana suas go dtí an 7 Bealtaine 2021; an raibh a Roinn ag iarraidh go bhfanfadh coláistí go dtí an samhradh chun éarlaisí a ghlacadh don samhradh sin; ar thug a Roinn aon treoir faoi conas déileáil leis na héarlaisí a glacadh sular thug sí an chomhairle gan iad a ghlacadh; agus an bhfuil comhairle ag a Roinn do choláistí samhraidh faoi éarlaisí a ghlacadh don bhliain 2022. [37981/21]
View answerTuigtear dom go dtosaíonn coláistí Gaeilge ag glacadh le héarlaisí ón bhfómhar ar aghaidh don samhradh dár gcionn. Mar is eol don Teachta, nuair a cuireadh cúrsaí samhraidh 2020 ar ceal de thoradh COVID-19 i mí Aibreáin 2020, bhí cuid mhaith éarlaisí agus táillí glactha faoin tráth sin ag coláistí mar is iondúil.
Ar ndóigh nuair a bhíothas ag glacadh le héarlaisí i leith samhradh 2020, níor thuig éinne cad a bheadh romhainn ar fad de thoradh na paindéime.
Ag cur san áireamh é sin uile, dearadh an ciste cobsaithe a cuireadh le chéile ar leas na hearnála go gairid ina dhiaidh sin in 2020 ar bhealach a d'aithin gur tháinig rudaí aniar aduaidh ar choláistí agus ba é príomhaidhm an cur chuige, dá réir, ciste a chur i dtoll a chéile a chuirfeadh ar chumas na gcoláistí aisíoc a dhéanamh ar na héarlaisí a bhí glactha acu roimh Aibreán 2020.
Cuireadh ciste a raibh ráchairt air agus rath leis le chéile dá réir do 2020 faoinar cuireadh fóirithint ar fáil do choláistí agus tithe lóistín araon.
Ag cruinniú ar 20 Samhain 2020, mheabhraigh an Roinn do CONCOS - scáthghrúpa na gcoláistí samhraidh - nárbh ionann an scéal a bhainfeadh le 2021 ó thaobh pé fóirithint a d'fhéadfadh a bheith ar fáil ón Roinn don earnáil agus gurbh fhearr do choláistí gan a bheith ag déanamh talamh slán de go mbeadh pé ciste cobhsaithe eile - dá mba ann dó do 2021 - ar aon dul leis an gciste 2020 réamhluaite.
Cuireadh fainic ar choláistí gur ar a bpriacal féin a bheadh sé dá mbeidís chun glacadh le héarlaisí, ar an tnúthán go bhféadfaí teacht i gcabhair ar choláistí ar an gcaoi céanna arís in 2021.
Ar an mbunús sin, mhol an Roinn i scríbhinn do gach coláiste samhraidh gan glacadh le héarlaisí do chúrsaí na bliana 2021. Sa nóta a seoladh chuig lucht stiúrtha na gcoláistí ar fad ar 13 Eanáir 2021, dheimhnigh an Roinn go rabhthas ag súil leis go mbeadh cúrsaí in ann dul ar aghaidh go sábháilte i samhradh 2021 ach moladh go láidir dóibh mar atá luaite cheana, gan glacadh le héarlaisí do chúrsaí 2021 ó tharla nach bhféadfaí a bheith cinnte ag an bpointe sin an mbeadh nó nach mbeadh na cúrsaí in ann dul ar aghaidh de dheasca COVID-19. Moladh dóibh chomh maith leas a bhaint as scéimeanna agus tacaíochtaí ábhartha de chuid an Rialtais a bhí bunaithe faoin tráth sin le dul i ngleic le tionchar geilleagrach na paindéime.
Mar is eol don Teachta, rinneadh cinneadh i mí Bealtaine nach bhféadfadh coláistí Gaeilge feidhmiú den dara bhliain as a chéile mar gheall ar COVID-19. Rinneadh an cinneadh sin ar bhonn comhdhearcaidh, tar éis dom mar Aire Stáit dul i ndáil comhairle le páirtithe leasmhara - idir lucht lóistín, lucht stiúrtha na gcoláistí agus lucht stiúrtha hallaí pobail ábhartha na Gaeltachta araon.
De thoradh an chiste a d'fhógair mé le gairid, beidh a fhios ag an Teachta go mbeidh cúnamh atá 25% níos fearr ná ciste cobhsaithe 2020 á chur ar fáil láithreach ar leas an tuairim is 700 teaghlach Gaeltachta atá aitheanta faoin gcóras. Tá próiseáil iarratas ó cheann ceann na Gaeltachta idir lámha cheana féin ag mo Roinn.
Ina theannta sin tá obair idir lámha, i gcomhar le páirtithe leasmhara, chun aghaidh a thabhairt ar na chéad chéimeanna eile i dtreo bealach cuí a aimsiú faoina bhféadfaí cabhrú oiread is féidir le lucht stiúrtha na gcoláistí samhraidh agus le hallaí pobail na Gaeltachta atá thíos leis mar gheall ar chúrsaí a bheith ar ceal den dara samhradh as a chéile. Caithfear a chur san aireamh, áfach, go bhfuil ioncam ag roinnt mhaith de na coláistí i mbliana nach raibh acu anuraidh, go háirithe ó chúrsaí ar líne a reáchtáleadh d'ábhair oidí nach raibh in ann freastal ar an nGaeltacht ach ó scéimeanna eile Stáit a bunaíodh chun teacht i gcabhair ar ghnólachtaí a bhí buailte de bharr na paindéime.
Is cur chuige níos leithne ná cur chuige 2020 atá idir lámha i mbliana sa mhéid is go gcuimseofar cás hallaí pobail ábhartha na Gaeltachta a bhfuil baint acu leis an earnáil.
Níor mhiste dom a rá chomh maith céanna, i gcomhthéacs an chúraim atá ar mo Roinn chun tacú leis an earnáil fad ár gcumais, gur ullmhaíodh agus scaipeadh dréacht-treoirlínte sainiúla don earnáil san earrach. Rinneadh é sin mar bheart breise tacaíochta don earnáil agus é mar aidhm ag an Roinn éascaíocht a dhéanamh ar an ullmhúchán go mba ghá do choláistí agus tithe lóistín a dhéanamh i gcás go bhféadfadh cúrsaí 2021 dul ar aghaidh faoi réir srianta sláinte foriomlána an Rialtais maidir le COVID-19. Cuireadh na dréacht-treoirlínte sin i dtoll a chéile le hionchur cuí comhairleoirlí sláinte a earcóidh go sonrach don chúram.
Maidir le cás na gcoláistí agus hallaí pobail, táim muiníneach gur féidir teacht ar chur chuige san achar ama atá romhainn a chuirfidh leis an méid atá fógartha agam agus a thacóidh le teacht aniar rathúil don earnáil an bhliain seo chugainn ar aghaidh.
317. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media if she will provide details of projected expenditure from the fund announced of €2.2 million to support eligible Gaeltacht families who normally provide accommodation for summer college students by county; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37997/21]
View answerAs the Deputy is aware I recently established a fund worth €2.2m to support eligible Gaeltacht families who normally provide accommodation for summer college students.
The funding is being made available on foot of the cancellation of Irish language courses in the Gaeltacht for the second summer in succession due to COVID-19. The decision was reached by consensus at the beginning of May to cancel Irish language courses in the Gaeltacht for this summer after I initiated a public consultation process involving discussions with key stakeholders within the sector, including the residential accommodation providers, to hear their opinions and recommendations on the matter.
Having had the opportunity to listen carefully to the representative group of Gaeltacht households who provide accommodation for the sector, as well as other key stakeholders, I am well aware of the particular challenges facing Gaeltacht communities.
As this is the second successive year that COVID-19 has forced the cancellation of the Irish language colleges for the summer, an increase of 25% over the amount paid in 2020 under a similar measure is being provided under this measure to over 700 qualifying householders who provide accommodation to students attending Irish language colleges each summer.
This ultimately means that a payment of €5 per student will be provided instead of €4 - as provided under last year’s measure. I might add that the measure has been broadly welcomed by the sector.
The objective of this funding is to ensure the continued viability of the sector and, as such, to allow it to continue to contribute to the systematic effort being made to support the Irish language and the Gaeltacht regions in line with overarching objectives as set out in the Government’s 20-Year Strategy for the Irish Language 2010-2030 and the accompanying 5-Year Action Plan for the Irish Language 2018-2022.
The projected expenditure under this measure is set out in the table below per Gaeltacht region:
|
County |
No of SFG households 2019 |
No of SFG students 2019 |
Projected Expenditure 2021 |
|
Donegal |
191 |
5,445 |
€402,293 |
|
Mayo |
44 |
3,278 |
€177,743 |
|
Galway |
391 |
12,660 |
€1,279,818 |
|
Meath |
9 |
257 |
€22,300 |
|
Kerry |
47 |
3,328 |
€238,540 |
|
Cork |
15 |
451 |
€24,625 |
|
Waterford |
15 |
1,258 |
€62,860 |
|
Total |
712 |
26,677 |
€2,208,178 |
I hope this information serves to clarify matters.
318. Deputy Christopher O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media her plans to implement measures to address the staff shortage crisis in the hospitality sector; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38021/21]
View answerI recognise that protecting workers and retaining tourism jobs and skills is vital to tourism’s recovery. In September 2020, the Tourism Recovery Taskforce submitted a Recovery Plan to me which sets out a number of recommendations, including a recommendation on enhancing sustainable employment, aimed at helping the tourism sector to survive and recover from the pandemic.
Extending the wage support measures was an important step in assisting tourism businesses with staff retention. Funding of €5 million was also provided to Fáilte Ireland in Budget 2021 for upskilling training and to improve digital presence.
The Tourism & Hospitality Careers Oversight Group (COG), chaired by Fáilte Ireland, is a collaborative approach by stakeholders, including Industry Bodies, Education Providers, Government Departments and State Agencies, to addressing Skills Shortages in the Tourism Sector. The Group is currently finalising a new plan that takes into account recommendations from the Tourism Recovery Taskforce. A feasibility study of the proposed National Tourism Education Gateway has also been initiated. The Careers Oversight Group organised a Recruitment for Reopening Webinar Event at the end of April for tourism and hospitality businesses.
Fáilte Ireland are currently running a social media campaign targeting job seekers. A schedule of targeted content will run through the summer on Fáilte Ireland’s tourism careers website to push the job opportunities available. As part of its suite of Covid 19 business supports, Fáilte Ireland provides HR advice and practical information for businesses. From employee well-being to temporary closures, these tailored supports help focus on restoring stability to businesses and supporting their employees. Fáilte Ireland has also created an extensive range of business supports to support Ireland’s tourism and hospitality businesses to survive, re-open and recover from the impact of the COVID-19 crisis.
My colleagues, Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Simon Harris TD and Minister of State for Skills, Niall Collins TD announced two new skills programmes in February to assist hospitality and tourism sectors with COVID-19 challenges. Both programmes are aimed at assisting recovery and growth in the hospitality and tourism sector.
The Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science and Minister of State for Skills also launched an Action Plan for Apprenticeships in April 2021. This is a five year strategy to deliver on the Programme for Government commitment of reaching 10,000 new apprentice registrations per year by 2025.
The Government recognises the disproportionate impact of the pandemic on tourism and hospitality and in the context of the National Economic Recovery Plan will consider further targeted measures to assist these sectors to recover.
319. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media when indoor group fitness training will be permitted in premises in which social distancing can be facilitated; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38024/21]
View answerIt is a matter for decision by the Government as to when various restrictions such as those currently in place for indoor group fitness training can be lifted. Such decisions will be based on public health advice and will be framed to respond effectively to the prevailing pandemic circumstances.
The Government recognises the physical and mental health benefits associated with fitness training. From the 7th of June, individual indoor sports training in gyms and other such facilities has accordingly been permitted. This includes one-to-one instruction. While individual indoor training activity is permitted, indoor group exercise classes, games, matches or competitions are not.
For the Deputy's information, I would add that the total numbers currently permitted in a given indoor facility for individual training takes cognisance of social distancing and is dependent on the capacity of that facility to fully comply with the public health requirements and associated protocols developed by the relevant sporting bodies and organisations. Further information and advice in this regard is available from those bodies and organisations which remain in a close and ongoing engagement with Sport Ireland.
320. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media the progress made towards action 75 of the National Disability and Inclusion Strategy 2017-2021. [38092/21]
View answer321. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media the progress made towards action 76 of the National Disability and Inclusion Strategy 2017-2021. [38093/21]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 320 and 321 together.
Overall responsibility for coordination of the National Disability and Inclusion Strategy 2017-2021, rests with the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth. Updates on the progress of the Strategy are published the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth website at www.gov.ie/en/publication/8072c0-national-disability-inclusion-strategy-2017-2021/ :
Within that context responsibility for actions 75 and 76 under the Strategy is shared between my Department and the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.
The table below details sets the current position in relation to my Department's implementation Actions 75 and 76 of the Strategy 2017-2021 as reported to the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth.
|
Number |
Action |
Progress Made (June 2021) |
|
75 |
We will ensure that new buildings and facilities for arts, sport or leisure are based on universal design principles. |
Culture: Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media: Provides significant capital support for cultural facilities including the range of cultural institutions nationwide. This capital programme under the National Development Plan (NDP) represents significant investment in arts and cultural centres and targets investment at a range of facilities, including works undertaken to improve disability access to venues Crawford Art Gallery: This will be addressed as part of the Management Development Plan for the Crawford Art Gallery. National Concert Hall: Will adhere to the principles of universal design in its redevelopment project and engage with specialist consultants to shape its approach to building design. Screen Ireland: All our buildings are fully accessible. Gaeltacht: Foras na Gaeilge: During 2017, Foras na Gaeilge’s two Dublin offices were relocated to a new headoffice in Dublin 1. The building was refurbished and is fully accessible and certified in line with latest standards with ramps, lifts and suitable doorways and corridors as well as having accessible bathrooms. New ergonomic chairs were provided for staff and staff with relevant physical impairments have been provided with adjustable desks (an adjustable desk was also provided for another staff member who reported back problems). Similar approach will be taken in relation to any future building moves. Ulster-Scots Agency: Both Agency buildings at Headquarters in Belfast and Regional Office in Raphoe, Co. Donegal are fully accessible in line with latest standards with ramps, lifts and suitable doorways, reception areas, corridors as well as having accessible bathrooms. Where necessary all staff have been issued with specific ergonomic chairs to suit their individual needs - these chairs were set up specifically by an expert provider. Similar approach will be taken in relation to any future building moves. Sport: It is a requirement of the Sports Capital and Equipment Programme that all facilities are accessible to people with disabilities and capital projects must conform to the 7 principles of universal design (http://nda.ie/what-is-universal-design/the-7-principles/). All gym equipment funded must be accessible to people with disabilities and the Department has produced a guide to accessible gym equipment - assets.gov.ie/22798/16dbbb4249904b46a13d31cca975717f.pdf.
Sport Ireland National Sports Campus has produced a report on its activity in relation to participation in sport by people with disabilities in 2020. This is available from Sport Ireland. |
|
76 |
We will foster disability awareness and competence in voluntary, sporting, cultural and other organisations. We will ensure that disability inclusion is fully integrated into funding programmes, monitored and linked to further funding. |
Culture:
Arts Council: The Arts Council’s Equality, Human Rights and Diversity (EHRD) Policy and Strategy, is designed to build on a range of existing Arts Council work areas, including an Arts and Disability policy, a Cultural Diversity and the Arts policy and a Dignity at Work policy.
Creative Ireland Programme: As part of a Creative Ireland Programme initiative to enhance and further develop access to youth theatre/drama in Ireland, funding has been provided for the hosting of an Inclusion Seminar for youth theatre leaders on Autism Spectrum Disorder and the production of a resource in association with 'As I Am'.
National Concert Hall: Are in support of this initiative.
Screen Ireland: All our programs are inclusive of all and promoted as such.
Gaeltacht:
Foras na Gaelige: All Foras na Gaeilge schemes and supports are categorically open to all and promoted as such.
Ulster-Scots Agency: Has an Equality Scheme and the current Disability Action Plan which is due to go out for a 12 week consultation.
Sport:
Sport Ireland Disability Sport Funding 2021 €7.982m: Ongoing support of and investment via Sport Ireland grants is provided to Local Sports Partnerships (LSP's), National Governing Bodies of Sport (NGB's), Paralympics, athletes, CARA (caracentre.ie/) and other agencies.
Return to Sport Expert Group: Sport Ireland recommended that CARA be included in the Group to ensure that any return to sport protocols be disability inclusive (caracentre.ie/return-to-sport/). Participation: Sport Inclusion Disability Officers are supported across the 29 LSP's in the LSP Network. 1,137 organisations signed up to the Disability Sport Inclusion Charter.
High Performance: Sport Ireland has provided support for para-athletes in qualifying for the Paralympic Games in Tokyo.
Innovation: Sport Ireland has worked with the National Disability Authority to capture information on a wide range of innovations/adaptations developed in response to the Covid-19 Pandemic (www.sportireland.ie/covid19/return-to-sport-and-physical-activity). Coaching: Development of an e-learning resource on Coaching People with Disabilities, for use by NGB's and coaches is ongoing. |
