In the near future I hope to make an announcement regarding a successor to my Department's ACCESS scheme. Under that scheme €45.7 million was allocated for the development of 44 arts and cultural facilities around the country. The provision of adequate facilities is a key element in making the arts something that everybody can enjoy and participate in. The increase in the availability of facilities, and the enhancement in their quality, has greatly increased access to and participation in the arts for a great many people.