Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 September 2011
319 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the supports offered by him to independent arts centres across the county; if his policy will continue to support arts centres, which provide so much vital community spirit and support; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24919/11]
Amharc ar fhreagraPrimary responsibility for the promotion of the arts at all levels throughout the country is devolved to the Arts Council. The Council is statutorily funded by my Department and is independent in its day to day operations, including funding decisions. The allocation to the Arts Council for 2011 is €65.127m. My Department has no statutory responsibility for ongoing funding of independent arts centres.
In the context of the 2012 Estimates I will endeavour to maximise continuing Government support for the arts.
