European Cultural Identity.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 1 July 2004

Thursday, 1 July 2004

Ceisteanna (28)

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

20 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if his attention has been drawn to a call from over 80 artists and cultural leaders from across Europe for a strengthened European cultural identity; his views on the signatories’ belief that the EU serves primarily an economic and monetary purpose to the detriment of a European cultural identity; if he has received and replied to the letter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19738/04]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism (Mr. O’Donoghue)

I assume the Deputy is referring to a communication addressed to the President of the European Commission recently from a group of artists regarding the importance of culture in the European Union. My office has not received this correspondence. I am pleased that the new constitution continues to recognise the importance of our common cultural heritage as well as the cultural diversity of member states in a newly enlarged Europe.