I propose to take Questions Nos. 512 and 513 together.
In April 2007, some €32.4 million was allocated to 67 projects under the ACCESS II arts and culture capital enhancement support scheme. In May 2008, the Minister for Arts, Sports and Tourism allocated funding of a further €10.2 million to 13 additional projects which had been placed on the reserve list for funding by the independent selection committee. Athlone Town Council was one of the 13 additional projects and was allocated €650,000 towards the development of a two part scheme — artists' studios and a dedicated contemporary gallery in Athlone. As set out in the application form under the ACCESS scheme, the gallery is planned to be located in Fr. Matthew Hall, situated in Athlone on the west bank of the River Shannon. The studios will be located in St. Mary's Hall on Abbey Road on the east side of the bridge in Athlone. The two premises are a five-minute walk apart. To date, no application has been received by the Department to change the location of either part of the project. At the present juncture, my Department is awaiting detailed plans and drawings of the project from the promoter, Athlone Town Council.
