Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 6 June 2012
496 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the extent to which he can use Arts, Heritage and the Cultural arising therefore to promote a beneficial image of Ireland abroad thereby contributing to the economic recovery; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27509/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraIreland's artistic and cultural strengths play an important role in underscoring our global cultural reputation. My Department'sCulture Ireland works to support Irish artists who have engaged very actively in helping to unlock the full potential of the key connection between culture, Ireland’s international reputation and tourism.
Culture Ireland also works closely with Tourism Ireland on a range of co-operative ventures, including promotional material for priority markets such as New York, joint support for events such as St. Patrick's Festival in Beijing and cross-promotion of Irish arts events abroad to maximise their cultural tourism potential.
In 2011Culture Ireland presented Imagine Ireland, a special year-long initiative, showcasing Irish arts and culture in the US throughout the year in an endeavour to provide a strategic platform to promote Irish tourism. More than 1,000 Irish artists were showcased in more than 500 events in more than 40 US States, working in partnership with key US festivals, venues and cultural institutions. Clusters of events were targeted to maximise the impact of key promotional opportunities, including St. Patrick’s week and Bloomsday, coordinating with Tourism Ireland and the Irish Embassy and Consulates. In the current year, it is seeking to build on that initiative and will also have an important role to play in the delivery of the Government’s cultural programme for the E. Presidency.
In addition, in 2013,Culture Ireland will continue to work closely with Tourism Ireland and The Gathering to showcase and celebrate Irish culture and encourage visitors to Ireland.
497 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the extent to which he has engaged with the EU colleagues in the context of the promotion of the Arts and Heritage of Europe and this country as a result thereby enhancing tourism potential as a result; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27510/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraI meet with my EU colleagues on a regular basis, whether at formal gatherings such as meetings of the Council of Ministers or at more informal meetings. I always take the opportunities presented at these engagements to promote the positive aspects of the arts and heritage of this country.
I should say that our EU Presidency in 2013 will present an additional platform for cultural links to be enhanced with key European partners. My Department, throughCulture Ireland, is leading on the international dimension of the Cultural Programme for the EU Presidency.
