Vol. 446 No. 4
159 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Arts, Culture and the Gaeltacht the present position regarding the proposed school or college of music for Galway City; the various stages undertaken by his Department so far; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2279/94]
For many years I have considered that there is a vital need for a school of music in Galway and I have studied a number of position papers on how this might be achieved. As a Deputy for Galway I have held several discussions with local interests and agencies to encourage the establishment of such a school. These discussions have included the possibility of Galway Regional Technical College offering a music course at third level. My Department has made representations to the Minister for Education (as part of her preparation of the White Paper on Education) in regard to all of the arts, including music, in the educational system. The decision to provide the resources for a school of music in Galway is a matter for the Department of Education. I have had discussions with the Minister for Education and will be in further discussion with her after the publication of the White Paper on Education regarding the provision of practical music courses throughout the country.
