Edward Nealon
Ceist:2 Mr. Nealon asked the Taoiseach if he will outline the plans which are being made for the celebration in Ireland this year of European Music Day or Music for All Day on 21 June 1991.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - European Music Day.
I am not aware of any plans for such an event.
The Taoiseach is aware of the impact which "Music for All Day" has made in France, where it originates, and in other European courtries and, indeed, the significant impact it made here in 1985 when it was celebrated during European Music Year. In view of the fact that Dublin is now the European City of Culture would he not consider it wise to make finance available to organisations who wish to celebrate "Music for All Day"?
I know the Deputy is interested in this matter but the position is that it was initiated in 1985 and has been carried on by the French since then with a fair amount of success. However, it has not really taken off here. The view is that it is not a very feasible proposition because, in the French context, it is very much an outdoor event. In our case, I am afraid that adverse weather conditions have affected the attractiveness of the proposal. However, the director of the Dublin promotions company, who are in charge of the European City of Culture arrangements, assures me that a very full programme of music events for the summer of this year is planned.
Would the Taoiseach consider taking the initiative and bring together the Arts Council, RTE and various other organisations who might be interested in promoting "Music for All Day" in the cultural capital?
I can assure the Deputy that there will be a full programme but, as I understand it, the idea just did not take off. It is not a popular one and, apparently in our conditions, not very feasible.