Arts Funding

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 31 January 2012

Tuesday, 31 January 2012

Ceisteanna (367)

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

414 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the total number of applications for support received in his Department or bodies under his aegis from various groups involved in the performance of the arts throughout the country; the extent to which he has been in a position to respond favourably to such requests; his intentions and his ability to meet such demands in the current year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5587/12]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht (Deputy Jimmy Deenihan)

My Department does not operate a formal application scheme to cater for groups involved in the performance of the arts. As the Deputy is aware, primary responsibility for funding for the arts rests with the Arts Council. The Council is independent in its decision-making process. Details of the Council's successful applicants are available on the Council's website at www.artscouncil.ie, as well as the decision-making panel and statistics on applications. The Council’s 2012 allocation of €63.241 million will allow it to maximise its continuing support for its clients in the arts.